A weighted blanket is a blanket traditionally (not ours) filled with a heavy material like glass beads or fine plastic pellets, designed to be heavier than a typical quilt. The weight creates a gentle, evenly distributed pressure across the body, a sensation known as Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS).
The Science Behind the "Hug" Effect for Kids
DPS is a therapeutic technique often used by paediatric occupational therapists to help children, especially those with sensory processing differences, autism, or anxiety. It works by activating the parasympathetic nervous system—our body’s “rest and digest” system. Think of it as the opposite of the "fight or flight" response.
When a child is under the weight of a quality weighted blanket, their body naturally releases key neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. At the same time, it can help lower cortisol, the stress hormone, making it easier to relax and unwind. This is why many parents describe the feeling as a gentle, continuous hug for their child.
More Than Just a Blanket for Your Child
While the most common use for a weighted blanket is to help children with sleep—aiding in falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer and waking less frequently, weighted blanket's benefits extend far beyond bedtime:
- Ease Anxiety & Big Emotions: The calming pressure helps ground children during moments of stress or overwhelm.
- Improve Focus: For children with busy minds, the consistent pressure can provide a sense of stability, helping them to focus better during quiet activities.
- Support Sensory Needs: For some, it is a wonderful tool for children with heightened sensitivities, providing that much-needed sensory input.
Choosing the Right Weighted Blanket for Your Little One?
When selecting a weighted blanket for your child, safety, material quality and even pressure are paramount. Choose one that is roughly 10% of your child's body weight and ensure that they can easily remove the blanket on their own. The best designs use a fill-free, bead-free construction that weaves the weight directly into the fabric (like Woven Woven), ensuring an even distribution of pressure and eliminating any safety risks from loose pellets.
Woven Woven's weighted blanket are made from natural fibres such as certified organic cotton (for naturally sensitive skins), bamboo fibre for little hot sleepers and cotton for breathability & everyday comfort.
In a world that can often feel overwhelming for children, a weighted blanket is a simple, effective on-the-go solution to finding a moment of peace.