Hmm, garden swing or trampoline? (to help sensory struggles/poss ASD)

[Blossom4538]

Hi all,
I know trampoling and swinging on swing may help calm but not sure which to go for. It's little ones (she'll be 6) birthday soon....

My LO who is 4 loves his trampoline. Also we have quite a big one that I can go on with him which is fun. We have a swing too to be fair but there is also the local playground for that? Swings definitely calming - trampoline not so sure if it is calming maybe more fun.

Have you had an OT assessment at all? Some children with sensory processing difficulties find bouncing on trampoline regulates & calms them (as it gives them the input/feedback they need), others it can make them more hyper. Same with the swing.
It depends what areas she is under/over responsive in.

A good OT with sensory intergration will be able to assess your DD and advise which is best for her particular needs.

I was wondering this? No we are about to but purchasing for Birthday beforehand. She used to have trampolining lessons but I can't think what she was like afterwards. I imagine it may hype her up. She enjoys the swing in the park.
I don't think she's under responsive - she doesn't often (v v occasionally) rock or spin to gain more input...am I getting this right?!! She does so a little tip toe walking...

Trampoline is great exercise and will get use beyond the time they will outgrow a swing. You may need to replace the padding/cover and/or the netting around every 2-3 years but it's well worth it.

Blossom, it's really hard to get your head around isn't it! She may be under responsive in some areas and over responsive in others.

Some children do really well on a trampette as the bouncing up and down really regulates them. Others may be advised by OT not to do tumbling upside down or running round in circles on trampoline before bed for example as it overloads their system and makes it difficult to sleep.

A sensory diet can make the word of difference.

You can get a 'gorilla gym' which is expensive but a good option for indoors if you did get a trampoline outside. It's really good for lots of children with SPD. Or a swing outside and trampette inside are options.

DS loves his trampoline - spends about an hour on it in total a day! I noticed since we got it he doesn't jump all over the furniture anymore and doesn't throw his body around the way he used to. It seems to regulate him and calm him down - he gets out the need to jump. I get him to bounce on it before school now too.