What is Project SOOTHe (Sensory Opportunities Offering Therapeutic Support)? 

For children who have experienced trauma, it can be difficult to feel safe and securely attached in a new home, no matter how loving or supportive that home is. But there’s hope for them...and for you as a caregiver!

One of the best ways to support the children in your life is to understand and meet their sensory processing needs. And Project SOOTHe can help. 

What is sensory processing?

Sensory processing is the way our nervous system receives sensory messages and information, and turns them into responses. For example, when we walk into a loud room or brush up against another person, our brain takes cues from those interactions and tells our bodies how to respond.

About Sensory Processing

What is sensory processing disorder (SPD)?

SPD is a neurological disorder in which sensory signals aren’t organized into appropriate responses. Children with SPD perceive and/or respond to sensory information differently than other people, and this disorganization interrupts their daily routines.

Oftentimes, these children are labeled “troublemakers” because their sensory processing needs aren’t understood, and therefore, aren’t met. The good news is that meeting their unique needs can make all the difference!

5% of kids deal with SPD, but an estimated 80% of kids with traumatic backgrounds experience challenges with SPD.

Sensory opportunities we offer

Through Project SOOTHe, we provide sensory objects, including weighted blankets, swings, sensory toys, and white noise machines, that can help ease anxiety in children.

These objects calm the central nervous system, help little (and big) bodies process stress, and increase the release of serotonin, a hormone that helps stabilize aspects such as mood and sleep.

If you're a foster parent, case worker, or therapist interested in applying for any of the following items for a specific child in the Houston area foster care system, please submit the request form below, and we’ll connect with you. 

  • Weighted Items (vest, stuffed animal, blanket–we'll need approval from a professional who knows the child to confirm the safest weight)

  • White Noise Machine

  • Therapeutic Swing

  • Sensory-Specific Toys

Symptoms of SPD
Project SOOTHe Intake Form