Sensory Brushing – A Parent’s Easy Guide

 

Sensory Brushing – A Parent’s Easy Guide

Many children struggle with sensory issues — some feel “too sensitive” to touch, while others may seek too much pressure. One of the proven techniques we use in therapy is called Sensory Brushing (Wilbarger Brushing Protocol).

This technique, when done properly, can calm your child, improve attention, and reduce sensory discomfort. Let me explain how you can do it in the right way.

How to Give Sensory Brushing (Step by Step)

1. The Brush

  • Use the specific OT sensory brush (also called a therapy brush).

  • Do not replace with a hairbrush, paintbrush, or kitchen scrubber — it won’t work the same way.

2. Position

  • Have your child in a comfortable sitting or standing position.

  • Choose a calm place, not noisy or distracting.

3. Technique & Pressure

  • Always brush in one direction (downward strokes), not back-and-forth scrubbing.

  • Pressure should be firm but gentle — like pressing an eraser on paper, not too light (ticklish) and not too strong (painful).

4. Areas to Brush

  1. Arms – from shoulder to wrist (both sides).

  2. Hands – top and sides (avoid the palm).

  3. Back – here comes the important part 👇

    • Do not just make straight lines.

    • Use a W or M pattern across the back.

    • Why? This covers the whole back evenly, giving proper deep pressure to all muscles.

    How to do it:

    • Start at one shoulder blade, brush diagonally down and across to the middle, then up again, forming an M shape.

    • Repeat the same but slightly lower to cover the full back.

    • Or you can brush in a W shape, starting from one side, going down-up-down-up, covering the whole back.

    • Always keep strokes smooth, not broken.

    👉 This way, the child feels balanced pressure, not just random strokes.

  4. Legs – from thighs to ankles (front and back).

  5. Feet – top and sides (avoid soles).

⚠️ Avoid face, chest, stomach, and private areas — these are too sensitive.

5. Joint Compressions (Very Important!)

After brushing, always do gentle joint compressions:

  • Shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers, hips, knees, ankles.

  • 10 presses each, firm but gentle.

  • This “completes the circle” of sensory input and prevents discomfort.

Protocol (When & How Often)

  • Usually every 2 hours during the day.

  • Continue for 2–3 weeks under therapist guidance.

  • Each session takes just 2–3 minutes.

Benefits of Sensory Brushing

✅ Calms the nervous system
✅ Reduces tactile defensiveness (avoiding touch)
✅ Improves focus and attention span
✅ Supports better participation in daily activities
✅ Helps regulate hyperactive behaviors

Do’s & Don’ts

✅ Do’s

  • Do use the special OT brush only.

  • Do brush in smooth strokes, not scrubbing.

  • Do use W/M shape on the back for full coverage.

  • Do always finish with joint compressions.

  • Do watch your child’s reaction — it should feel calming.

❌ Don’ts

  • Don’t brush sensitive areas (face, chest, stomach, private parts).

  • Don’t do it if your child has cuts, wounds, or skin allergies.

  • Don’t press too hard or too light.

  • Don’t force if your child strongly resists.

Final Note for Parents

Sensory brushing is not a simple massage. It’s a structured therapeutic method. When done properly, it can make your child feel safe, calm, and more organized. Always learn the technique from your therapist before starting at home.

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