January 15, 2018

Let’s Talk Compression Clothing and Autism

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Often, children with autism will be recommended to use a weighted vest. My son Cooper is a sensory seeker and highly behavioral. Every therapist we’ve ever worked with has recommended we try to get him to wear some type of compression clothing.

Some common reasons a teacher or therapist may recommend a weighted vest:

  • To improve a child’s focus so they can pay attention to academic work in the classroom.
  • To provide deep pressure stimulation that has a calming effect.
  • To help decrease stereotypical behaviors.
  • Increase Attention to Academic Work

We spent a lot of money and energy over the years trying to get Cooper to wear one. No luck. That is until recently. At age seven, he will now wear compression clothing for short burts of time. And when he wears them, we definitely see a calmer and happier kid!

Here is a short video of me showing our three favorite compression products. We’ve tried so many I sort of consider myself and expert. These three are the best!

https://youtu.be/QXf5oUo-KtA

Product Links

Tie Dye Hug Tees: Cooper loves, loves, loves this t-shirt. It’s soft, colorful and provides just the right amount of compression for him. I also like that it’s not too heavy. Remember the heavier the compression the warmer the child will get. This is my most favorite compression product! Click HERE to purchase.

Dolphin Graphic Weighted Compression Vest: This vest is perfect for Cooper! He thinks it is a life jacket and therefore willingly puts it on. We started with 15 minutes a day and built up daily. I love how easy it is to put on and how the weight is adjustable. And it’s cute! Click HERE to purchase.

Pressure Mesh Vest: This vest is super lightweight and breathable. It worked really well in the summer when it was warmer. This was the first vest we ever tried with Cooper and it a super good one to start with. Click HERE to purchase.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter.

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Kate Swenson

Kate Swenson lives in Minnesota with her husband Jamie, and four children, Cooper, Sawyer, Harbor and Wynnie. Kate launched Finding Cooper's Voice from her couch while her now 11-year-old son Cooper was being diagnosed with autism. Back then it was a place to write. Today it is a living, thriving community of people who want to not only advocate for autism, but also make the world a better place for individuals with disabilities and their families. Her first book, Forever Boy, will be released, April 5, 2022.

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2 Comments

  1. Daniel B on December 18, 2018 at 9:25 pm

    Thanks for such an informative post! I’m a pediatric OT and it’s really helpful to hear parent perspective on sensory strategies.



  2. Rosemary rivers on February 5, 2022 at 2:04 pm

    Hi I have a non verbal severe autistic beautiful grand daughter. I loved everything you said. Nothing seems to help her at times and doesn’t seem like there’s anyone that knows much to help. But I tried to order that the dye tee shirt and they don’t have it anymore. Do you know where I can get one she’s 6 Thanks Rosemary Rivers. 5857457025. Rorivs13@yahoo.com