In this episode of Key Ministry: The Podcast, Amy Kendall shares essential tools and tips for creating a sensory box to support individuals in special needs ministry. From oral motor chews and noise-canceling headphones to stress balls, fidget spinners, and liquid motion bubblers, Amy provides practical recommendations and trusted websites to help leaders build effective, budget-friendly sensory kits. She also highlights the importance of meeting individual sensory needs with a variety of textures, movements, and calming items.

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Building the Perfect Sensory Box for Special Needs Ministry

Creating a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals with special needs often means being prepared with the right sensory tools. Whether you’re just starting your ministry or expanding your sensory resources, having a well-stocked sensory box can make a big difference. In this episode, Amy Kendall shares her go-to items and favorite suppliers to help you meet the needs of every child and teen you serve.

🧠 Oral Motor Chews

• ARK Grabbers – P-shaped handheld chews, available in textured and scented versions.
• Necklace Chews – Shaped like shark teeth or Legos.
• Bracelet/Coil Chews – Flexible, telephone-cord style.
• Link: ARK Grabbers on Amazon

🎧 Noise-Canceling Headphones

• Colorful and budget-friendly for kids and teens.
• Provide sound dampening and calming pressure.
• Link: View on Amazon

🌀 Fidget Spinners

• Basic Spinners – Classic or light-up.
• Pop-it Spinners – Combine popping and spinning.
• Transformer-Style Spinners – Shape-shifting fidgets.

🫧 Pop-Its and Pop-It Balls

• Pop-Its in fun shapes (e.g., dinosaurs, bunnies).
• Pop-It Balls – Soft, squishy, and fun.

📯 Wrapper Snappers (Pop Tubes)

• Stretch and compress for sensory feedback.
• Best used outside quiet settings.
• Link: View on Amazon

💪 Stress Balls

• Good for hand-strengthening and calming.
• Available in many shapes and textures.
• Link: View on Amazon

🎨 Artsy Fidgets

• Wikki Stix – Wax sticks that bend and mold.
• Magic Scratch Pads – Scratchable art with hidden colors.

🪢 Stretchy Strings

• Textured, colorful, and stretchable.
• May collect dirt over time.
• Link: View on Amazon

🌈 Liquid Motion Bubblers

• Oil and water droplets provide visual soothing.
• Helpful for calming and stimming.
• Link: View on Amazon

🧊 Sensory Squish Cubes

• Mess-free and squishable.
• Less prone to popping than traditional squishies.
• Link: View on Amazon

🌀 Infinity Cubes

• Endlessly foldable fidget cubes.
• Helps with focus and calming during lessons.
• Link: View on Amazon

🔗 Flippy Chains

• Metal fidgets that are silent and discreet.
• Great for older kids and quiet settings.
• Link: View on Amazon

🛒 Amy’s Favorite Shopping Sites

• Amazon – Fast and broad selection.
• Fun and Function – Affordable sensory tools.
• Special Supplies – Specialty sensory tools.
• Therapy Shoppe – OT and speech therapy tools.
• School Specialty – Great for church or school use.
• Special Needs Toys – Accessible and friendly options.
• Autism Products – Tailored to autism needs.
• Especial Needs – Small business quality.

Final Thoughts

Your sensory box doesn’t need to be expensive or overwhelming—just thoughtful. A few well-chosen tools can help your ministry be a more inclusive, welcoming place for every child and teen who walks through your doors.