Audio Story with Squishies

For sensory-seeking kids, having something to *do with their hands* makes listening possible. Squishies, kinetic sand, or play-dough provide steady tactile input while a podcast or audiobook fills the auditory channel. It's the same regulation strategy adults use with fidget toys during meetings — kids deserve it too.

• A bin of sensory items (squishies, putty, play-dough, kinetic sand, slime, or stress balls)
• A speaker or kid-safe headphones
• A podcast or audiobook ready to play

1. 1Lay out the sensory items on a tray or in a contained space (kinetic sand on a baking sheet stays contained).
2. 2Start the audio.
3. 3Walk away.

• Try 'Circle Round' from NPR (folktales for kids), 'Stories Podcast' (originals + classics), or 'Wow in the World' for science-curious kids.
• Theraputty in different resistance levels is a great sensory upgrade if regular play-dough gets boring.