Brief Report: The Effects of a Weighted Blanket on Engagement for a Student With ASD. (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zimmerman, Kathleen N.; Ledford, Jennifer R.; Severini, Katherine E.
• Is Part Of: Focus on autism and other developmental disabilities. Volume 34:Number 1(2019:Mar.)
• Page Start: 15
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: weighted blanket -- autism spectrum disorders -- structured work boxes; Autism in children -- Periodicals; Autistic children -- Education -- Periodicals; Autism -- Periodicals; Developmental disabilities -- Periodicals; 616.8982
• DOI: 10.1177/1088357618794911
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1088-3576

Abstract

The effectiveness of a weighted blanket intervention and structured work boxes for improving engagement for a child with autism during math circle time in a general education kindergarten classroom were evaluated relative to baseline using an alternating treatments design. The structured work boxes resulted in higher levels of engagement, and the weighted blanket resulted in levels that were similar to or lower than baseline. Additional research is needed on sensory-based interventions; in the meantime, teachers should use evidence-based practices.