Strategies for Introducing Compression Clothing and Weighted Products
The following strategies may help introduce your child to compression clothing and weighted products, particularly if they experience sensory challenges or are initially hesitant to use them.
As a pediatric occupational therapist, I have applied these occupational therapy principles in school, home, and clinical settings. The goal is to help your child associate deep pressure with a calming and positive experience. Creating a supportive, encouraging environment can make it easier for your child to accept this type of sensory input.
Some children readily wear compression clothing and request weighted products, while others benefit from a gradual and gentle introduction. The following ideas may help you begin at home:
Deep-pressure massage: Before introducing deep-pressure input, use firm, rhythmic massage with an open hand—not light strokes or unexpected touches—on the arms, legs, and back. Stop if your child shows signs of discomfort or distress.
Joint compressions: Only perform joint compressions under the guidance of an occupational therapist. When appropriate, gentle, rhythmic compressions to the elbows, wrists, shoulders, and knees can provide organized proprioceptive input.
“Heavy work” play: Encourage fun activities that involve muscle effort and naturally provide proprioceptive input. Examples include jumping, crawling, pulling, running, climbing, and pushing games.
Introduce the garment during calming activities: Offer compression clothing while your child is engaged in a preferred, calming activity, such as reading, listening to music, completing a puzzle, or coloring.
Offer structured choices: Allow your child to choose what else they would like to wear or pair with the compression garment. Providing choices can increase their sense of independence and reduce anxiety.
Use visual supports: Visual supports may be more effective than verbal instructions alone. Try a simple first/then visual, such as: “First, put on the shirt. Then, play with Magna-Tiles.
Follow with a preferred activity: Plan a favorite activity immediately after your child puts on the compression garment or uses the weighted product. For example: “First we put this on, then we’ll go to the playground.”
Use positive names: Give the garment a name that your child associates with something positive, such as “hug shirt,” “love shirt,” “superhero shirt,” “power pants,” or “silly shirt.”
Remember that compression clothing should feel comfortably snug—not excessively tight—and should not be difficult to put on or remove. Never force, punish, or pressure your child to wear or use a sensory product. Consult an occupational therapist for individualized recommendations, including guidance on proper fit, duration of use, and safe application.
