Atypical Journey Store - Buying Guide

We are about to write up a buying guide here that match products with the modalities.

"The integration of sensory modalities is a cornerstone of supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). By aligning specific products with the primary sensory systems—vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, visual, and auditory—caregivers and professionals can create environments that foster self-regulation and cognitive focus."

This is the breakdown: 

Proprioceptive:  is the sense that helps us know where our body is in space and how it’s moving, without needing to look.

Weighted Fat Cat Stuffed Toy: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/weighted-fat-cat-soft-plush-animal-for-calming-sensory-support-sitting-design-parent-child-game-toy-for-childrens-room-decoration?variant=43267869442126

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Vestibular modality: This focuses on the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation

Balance Stepping Stones: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/balance-stepping-stones-kids-non-slip-textured-surfac-rubber-edges-indoor-outdoor-obstacle-course-toy-exercise-coordination-stre?variant=43316271251534

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Tactile: These tools are designed provide sensory input and help individuals manage sensory sensitivities. They are beneficial for neurodivergents who may experience challenges in regulating their sensory input due to heightened or diminished sensitivity to certain stimuli.

Our whole fidget collection: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/collections/fidget-tools-focus-boosters

These are also in the category of Stimming and Fidget Tools.

Note: A word of caution with a few of our fidgets do light up. If someone has a sensitivity to lights or flashing etc. consider using another product in this line as there are several choices. 

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Open Ended Play & Executive Function: This is a crucial component in fostering executive functioning. It allows for a wide range of activities that promote cognitive flexibility, impulse control, and problem solving skills. 

Dinosaur Magnetic Tiles: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/dinosaur-magnetic-building-tiles-creative-building-set-educational-stem-toy?variant=43267457876046

Marble Run Big Block Toy: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/marble-run-big-block-toy-diy-building-block-funnel-slide-blocks-amusement-diy-bricks-plastic-educational-toys-for-kids?variant=43318560587854

Magnetic Tile Building Blocks: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/magnetic-tile-building-blocks-childrens-educational-toys-strong-magnet-box-mini-magnetic-sheet-color-window-panel-boys-gift?variant=43317653897294

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Motor-Sensory: These toys engage the child in the sense of touch and sight and allows them to interact with the objects and learn about colors through interaction. This sensory motor engagement helps in the development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive skills.

Montesssori Color Matching Toy: 

https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/montessori-color-sorting-matching-toys-wooden-shape-recgnition-toy-kids-math-learning-educational-toys-todders-fine-motor-gifts?variant=43320867356750

Sensory Activity Board: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/1pcs-durable-sensory-activity-learning-board-felt-table-game-montessori-toys-versatile-educational-recognition-toy-for-toddlers?variant=43320870895694

Montessori Busy Board Sensory Toy: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/montessori-busy-board-sensory-toys-cartoon-with-led-light-switch-control-board-travel-activities-children-game-for-2-4-years-old?variant=43320869748814

Color Sorting Toy with Rainbow Bowls: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/counting-color-sorting-toys-with-rainbow-bowls-for-kids-sensory-training-counting-activity-montessori-education-learning-gifts?variant=43285899608142

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Social-Emotional: This modality contains five main compenents. Self awareness, social awareness, responsible decision making, self management, and relationship skills. These skills are essential for health emotional development and positive social interactions, influencing every decision we make and impacting our relationships, learning capacity and mental health.

Our whole collection in Nuturing Hearts: Social - Emotional Learning Resources https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/collections/social-emotional-learning-resources

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Auditory & Visual Regulation: Involves the interaction and processing of sensory information across different senses. It for example can influence each other especially the cross modal eg; auditory input can enhance memory for visual objects. 

Instruments Collection: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/collections/instruments

Note: The Kalimba in this collection is likely geared for older children and adults and may not be suitable for young children. Or if using it with your child Adult Supervision is recommended. 

Also these products are suitable for auditory and visual regulation and are fun as well:

Dancing Cactus with Voice Changing Function: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/dancing-cactus-with-voice-changing-function-talking-toy-plush-120-songs-to-dance-fun-interactive-adult-and-childrens-educati?variant=43320862113870

Light Up Star Pillow Plush: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/light-up-star-pillow-room-decor-plush-star-9-inch-portable-colorful-stuffed-toy-for-boys-girls-night-sleeping-birthday-christmas?variant=43318560030798

Liquid Oil Hourglass Astronaut Timer: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/cute-liquid-oil-hourglass-astronauts-liquid-timer-leak-drip-sand-clock-home-decoration-office-desk-decompression-ornaments?variant=43318558785614

Mini LED Night Light Starry Projector: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/products/rgbw-starry-projector-mini-led-night-light-with-music-and-voice-control-10-planets-star-galaxies-moon-lamp-for-room-decoration?variant=43316761198670

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Art and Sensory expression: Art and sensory expression for neurodivergents  offer several benefits, including non-verbal communication, emotional regulation, social interaction, unique perspectives and coping strategies.  By using creative expression, neurodiverse clients can work through challenges in a supportive, empowering environment.

Our whole collection Creative/Art Projects: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/collections/creative-art-projects

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Science & Logic: The reasons for science projects for neurodivergents include recognition of their unique strengths and the need to create inclusive environments that support their success. Science can become a more inclusive field that benefits from the diverse ways of thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Our whole collection of Science Kits: https://atypicaljourneystore.ca/collections/science

All of these are just some examples how and why our products can be used. 

The products in this store are specifically curated for neurodivergent individuals to bridge the gap between sensory processing challenges and daily functioning. By matching tools to specific modalities—such as using a weighted stuffed cat for proprioceptive grounding  — users can customize their sensory "diet" to maintain an optimal level of arousal.