18/04/2026
DEEP PRESSURE!
Eammon & Bethany were promised months ago that they could be in a video about deep pressure, so I’ve been summoned to fulfil my oath!
What is ‘Deep Pressure’? How does it work? What’s happening in the body?
Deep pressure activates the proprioceptive system, the sensory system that tells us where our body is in space through muscles, joints, and connective tissue.
When firm, steady pressure is applied: Think of it like a hug, weighted blanket, being squished into a couch, it competes with and dampens overwhelming sensory input (noise, chaos, emotions)
In this video, I’m showing a few simple ways we use ‘deep pressure’ at home.
• Hands-on deep pressure which is firm, steady, responsive to the child
• Our cylinder deep pressure pillow which provides a different type of pressure
• And a Squishmallow moment… where I ‘chat’ to the squishy about all the amazing things my child has done that day
Because here’s the thing about talking to a squishy or a toy… Kids LOVE hearing good things about themselves… But sometimes hearing it indirectly feels safer, easier, and more believable.
Deep pressure is powerful, but not universally calming. Every child is different!
• Never force it, as it can increase distress or trigger trauma responses in some children and people
• ALWAYS ask for consent to touch their bodies, and again if you know the child well enough to provide pressure to their hips/bottom.
• I NEVER apply pressure to the hips/bottom on client children or any children other than my own. Again, only with their permission.
• Some children are tactile defensive and may find it overwhelming.
• Always follow the child’s cues
• Offer choice and control, such as ‘Do you want more or less pressure?’
• Reaffirm consent through the process by asking ‘Have you had enough or should I keep going?’
• Watch for signs it’s working: slower breathing, softer body, engagement returning
