The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun: Activities for Kids with Sensory Processing Disorder

The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun by Carol Stock Kranowitz is the practical activity companion to the bestselling Out-of-Sync Child. While the original book helps parents understand Sensory Processing Disorder, this volume provides over 100 engaging, affordable activities that help children with sensory processing differences develop better motor skills, body awareness, and sensory tolerance — all through play.

Each activity is organized by the sensory system it targets: tactile (touch), vestibular (movement and balance), proprioceptive (body position and force), visual, auditory, and oral-motor. Kranowitz explains which sensory systems each activity addresses, what materials are needed (most use common household items), and how to adapt the activity for children who are over-responsive, under-responsive, or sensory-seeking. This makes it easy for parents to create a personalized "sensory diet" — a planned schedule of sensory activities that helps regulate the child's nervous system throughout the day.

The revised edition includes new activities, updated guidance on sensory integration theory, and expanded sections on incorporating sensory play into daily routines. Activities range from simple (playing with shaving cream, jumping on a trampoline, making a "body sandwich" with pillows) to more structured (obstacle courses, craft projects, cooking activities), making it easy to find options for every age, interest level, and sensory profile.

For homeschooling families, this book is invaluable as a source of "brain break" activities between academic lessons. Research shows that children with sensory processing differences learn better when they have regular opportunities for sensory input throughout the day. Kranowitz's activities can serve as transition activities between subjects, calming activities before demanding academic work, or energizing activities when a child's attention is flagging. Many of the activities also build fine motor skills needed for handwriting and gross motor skills needed for physical education.

The book includes helpful charts that cross-reference activities by sensory system, age range, and indoor versus outdoor suitability. Parents can quickly find an activity that meets their child's current sensory needs and fits the available space and materials. Whether used as a standalone resource or alongside occupational therapy, The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun empowers parents to support their child's sensory development through joyful, everyday play.