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6 Best Weighted Blankets for Kids & Toddlers (Psychologist Picks)

Weighted blankets have become extremely popular in the last couple of years. In fact, they have become a godsend for many kids, teens, and adults desperate for a good night’s rest.

When I meet a parent with a child who is experiencing psychological distress, anxiety, depression, ADHD symptoms, chronic insomnia, or sensory processing issues, I always ask them if their child is sleeping well.

Are they sleeping through the night? Waking up early? Or, tossing and turning all night? If a parent tells me that their child is doing one or more of these things, I typically recommend that the parent purchase a weighted blanket for the child.

I have found that a good night’s rest can make all the difference in the mental and emotional state of a child. A child who receives proper sleep at night is more focused and alert, calmer, balanced, happier, and better able to confront and conquer any challenges they face.

So, what did those parents tell me after their children slept beneath a weighted blanket? They reported to me that their children’s sleep habits, thought patterns, behaviors, and moods significantly improved after using one of them.


My Top Picks for the Best Weighted Blankets for Kids

1. YnM Weighted Blanket for Kids (best results)

31J1nR+MQGL. SL500

According to my child clients and their parents, the YnM Weighted Blanket for Kids is the best option for children and teens. YnM is the best weighted blanket for kids because it provides stress relief and relaxation to children who have a hard time sleeping comfortably throughout the night.

As a result of using this blanket, my clients have reported to me that it has not only greatly improved the quality of their children’s sleep, but enhanced their lives overall.

My clients also love the way the pressure of the blanket is evenly distributed, so it’s not too heavy for their children to move or adjust.

In addition, YnM weighted blankets provide therapeutic relief to children with a variety of ailments and complaints, such as chronic stress, aches and pains, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, anxiety, ADHD, and autism.

It comes in a variety of different sizes and weights, from 5 to 15 pounds. The good news is most children can comfortably use this blanket without problems.

Especially Designed for Kids Who Have:

  • PTSD

Comfort

  • Feels like a deep tissue massage
  • Polyester microfibers that keep your child cool, so they don’t overheat while sleeping
  • Designed to comfortably surround your child’s body and to form to their shape while they sleep
  • Glass beads sewn into individual sections to prevent movement and noise while your child sleeps
  • Made with quality materials that will not scratch your child’s skin
  • Made from a moisture-wicking 300-thread-count
  • Is offered in bamboo viscose, a type of fabric that is stronger than cotton. In addition, it has both anti-bacterial and anti-UV radiation properties. Bamboo fiber also absorbs and evaporates sweat and moisture easily, so your child can comfortably use it during the summer months

Available Weights & Sizes (36” x 48”)

  • 5 lbs.
  • 7lbs.
  • 10 lbs.

Available Colors

  • Grey
  • Cream
  • Blue

Pros

  • Works well for children who have experienced trauma or those who suffer from depression or anxiety
  • Affordable, so it won’t “break the bank”
  • It boosts serotonin levels (the “feel good” hormone), so your child sleeps soundly and awakens in a good mood

Cons

  • Beads may have to be constantly adjusted to achieve the needed level of comfort
  • Sizes may be inaccurate – measures smaller than advertised
  • May not be constructed well – i.e. broken stitches, missing loops, and spilling beads
Click here to see today's price for the YnM Weighted Blanket on Amazon

2. Weighted Idea: Premium Weighted Blanket for Kids

41Vo9WGBISL. SL500

After speaking with my clients about weighted blankets for kids and conducting my own independent research, I have concluded that the Weighted Idea: Premium Weighted Blanket for Kids is the second-best option for children and teens.

For many of my clients, the Weighted Idea: Premium Weighted Blanket for Kids has been the most beneficial blanket for their children who suffer from sleep problems, anxiety, and sensory issues.

This blanket has been awarded an “Amazon’s Choice” weighted blanket, meaning that a significant amount of Amazon customers have deemed this blanket one of the best weighted blankets for children.

Parents have also told me that this blanket has helped their children fall asleep more quickly than before.

Ultimately, my clients like this blanket because it helps their children sleep deeper, longer, and more soundly at night. It also reduces frequent nighttime wake-ups and early morning awakenings. Typically, their children awaken rested and in a better mood.

The children report to me that the blanket feels like a big warm hug when it is placed on them. They also like the way it feels against their skin, and they feel less anxious and stressed at bedtime when they sleep beneath this weighted blanket.

Especially Designed for Kids Who Suffer From:

  • Phobias
  • Nervousness
  • Headaches & Migraines
  • Mood Swings
  • Fatigue
  • Poor Focus & Concentration

Comfort

  • 100% premium cotton & cotton filler, which prevents overheating and excessive perspiration
  • Breathable fabric
  • Two extra polyester layers, which prevents beads from seeping out
  • Made with hypoallergenic, non-toxic, non-irritating, odorless food-grade polypropylene plastic beads that make very little noise with movement
  • Beads are surrounded with non-glue polyester to ensure maximum comfort
  • Comes with sturdy strips to easily connect to a duvet cover
  • Can be used during the summer and winter months
  • Does not cause excessive sweating in most children. However, if your child is warm-natured, a fan or air conditioner may be needed to keep them cool during summer months
  • Extra lining to provide a more plush sleeping experience
  • Small, eco-friendly, sand-size pellets (beads)

Available Weights & Sizes (36” x 48,” 41” x 60”& 48” x 78”)

  • 5 lbs. (in limited supply – check website for availability)
  • 7 lbs.
  • 15 lbs.

Available Colors

  • Light Grey
  • Dark Grey
  • Grey/Grey
  • Grey/Navy
  • Grey
  • Brown/Cream
  • Navy Blue

Pros

  • Can be used while sleeping, resting, reading, completing homework, socializing with friends, and watching television
  • Is extremely comfortable, so it can put some children to sleep within minutes
  • Very affordable, especially if you have two or more children who need blankets

Cons

  • May use a synthetic/cotton combo filling
  • May develop a tear or hole over time, causing beads to spill out
  • May size smaller than advertised, so you may have to get a slightly larger size May trigger or worsen panic attacks (in some children) or cause them to feel smothered beneath this blanket. ***Discontinue use of this blanket and call your child’s pediatrician immediately if that occurs.
  • Your child may feel as if they are sleeping on sand
Click here to see today's price for the Weighted Idea: Premium Weighted Blanket on Amazon

3. ZonLi Weighted Blanket for Girls & Boys

41 HuJ2TLcL. SL500

Another blanket my clients have purchased for their sleepless, distressed, or restless children is the ZonLi Weighted Blanket for Boys and Girls.

This weighted blanket is made of 100% breathable cotton, which is cooler and sturdier than the average blanket. It is also made with a type of non-glue polyester padding, which is better for the environment.

In addition, makers of this weighted blanket use non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and odorless glass beads (for the weights) in the blankets, so the beads don’t make noise with movement.

A major benefit of the ZonLi Weighted Blanket for Girls and Boys is that it can help your child sleep better and longer at night.

It may also help reduce anxiety and provide relief for some health conditions, such as traumatic brain injuries, insomnia, phobias, restlessness, hyperactivity, etc.

My clients report back that this blanket has provided their children with insomnia relief and that their children feel better, behave better, and process things better because of this blanket.

My child clients tell me that this blanket makes them feel secure, tucked-in, cozy, and snuggly. They say that this particular blanket feels like being wrapped up in a big hug.

Especially Designed for Kids Suffer From:

  • Phobias
  • Joint and Muscle Pain
  • Post-Traumatic Brain Injuries

Comfort

  • 100% natural cotton, which prevents your child from overheating during the summer months
  • Hypoallergenic, non-toxic, non-irritating, odorless glass beads that make very little noise with movement
  • May calm an overly active or stressed child down within 15 minutes
  • Cocoons the body and prevents excessive twitching that can keep your child awake
  • Extra small squares, so the weight is evenly distributed inside of the blanket, and the glass beads do not shift too much with movement
  • Two layers of microfiber inside to prevent the beads from leaking and to ensure that the blanket will not cause your child to overheat

Available Weights & Sizes (36” x 48,” 41” x 60”& 48” x 72”)

  • 5 lbs.
  • 7 lbs.
  • 10 lbs.
  • 15 lbs.

*** Note: For this blanket, order a size that is between 7% and 13% of your child’s body weight. Refrain from oversizing the blanket to provide more length.

Available Colors

  • Dark Grey
  • Grey/Black
  • Grey/Brown
  • Cream
  • Navy Blue

Pros

  • May reduce pain and eases muscle tension
  • Can be used with or without a duvet cover
  • Feels like a massage on tense or sore muscles
  • May decrease restlessness and hyperactivity
  • Accurate sizing

Cons

  • Does not come with a duvet cover, but one can be purchased if needed
  • Not recommended for children under 6 years old
  • May come with plastic weighted beads or sand instead of glass beads
  • May feel “rough” or like sandbags or beanbags to some children
  • Material may not be as durable as advertised
  • May not help your child with racing thoughts or restlessness
  • Beads may redistribute to the edges of the blanket causing the weight to concentrate on your child’s legs
  • Beads may not stay in their specially-designed pockets
  • Blanket may “wear out” over time
Click here to see today's price for the ZonLi Kids Weighted Blanket on Amazon

4. Weighted Blankets Plus for Children & Teens

51dvkNF71HL. SL500

Several of my adult clients have shared with me how their restless, hyperactive, or sleepless children were increasing their own stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

They also reported, however, that weighted blankets had become relievers of that stress, not only for their children, but for themselves as well.

These clients told me the only thing that helped their children calm down and fall and stay asleep all night was weighted blankets, specifically the Weighted Blankets Plus for Children & Teens.

The comfort of the blanket is what makes it stand out to my clients. According to their children and teens, the thing they liked best was that it felt like a great big hug – not too heavy to move and not too hot that it caused them to wake up in a puddle of sweat each morning.

The children and teens reported to their parents that they felt more rested and had more energy at school after sleeping beneath the Weighted Blankets Plus for Children & Teens. And, because their children slept better at night, my adult clients were less stressed and more focused on their prescribed treatment plans.

Some of my adult clients even admitted to “stealing” this blanket for the weekend or for naps. They reported to me that they also felt refreshed, more focused, and energized after sleeping beneath this blanket.

Especially Designed for Kids Who Suffer From:

  • Constantly wake up and night and can’t get back to sleep because of a “busy mind”

Comfort

  • 100% cotton/flannel fabric
  • Comes with sugar-sized glass micro-beads without a poly-fill
  • Beads are divided into 4”x4” squares to prevent slippage or leakage
  • Hypoallergenic and non-toxic, so it won’t make your child or teen ill
  • Non-irritating, so it won’t scratch your child’s skin while he or she sleeps
  • Versatile, so your child or teen can use it in a variety of settings
  • Good quality
  • Retains is form, softness, and durability after multiple washings
  • Expert stitching keeps the weight centered
  • Resembles a quilt in texture and feel
  • Great quality blanket & even weight distribution
  • Durable

Available Weights & Sizes (48” x 30,”52” x 40,” 58” x 41” & 66” x 41”)

  • 4 lbs.
  • 5 lbs.
  • 6 lbs.
  • 7 lbs.
  • 8 lbs.
  • 9 lbs.
  • 10 lbs.

Note: You may want to add on 1-2 extra pounds (past the 10% of your child body weight) so it can grow with your child while remaining manageable to him or her.

Available Colors

  • Bugs
  • Dolphin
  • Fox
  • Jungle
  • Doc McStuffins/Teal

Pros

  • Comes in a variety of child and teen-friendly patterns and colors to fit your child’s personality
  • Is also available in adult sizes
  • Children ages two and up can use one of these blankets
  • Made with quality materials, so it lasts a long time
  • Can be used in a wide-variety of settings, such as while your child completes homework, socializes with friends, reads, or watches television
  • Comes in 4 lbs., which is small enough in weight to accommodate most toddlers

Cons

  • Liner is separate from the blanket
  • Does not come with a duvet cover
  • May be too pricey for some parents
  • May be smaller than advertised, so you may have to go up a pound or two in weight and length

Note: Adult sizes available – check the Amazon for more sizes and weights

Click here to see today's price for the Weighted Blankets Plus on Amazon

5. Sensory Goods Weighted Blanket for Children & Teens

51TTNVCSBmL. SL500

Because weighted blankets have been so beneficial for many of my child and adult clients, I decided to conduct further research on these natural sleep aids for children and teens.

My goal was to compile a list of the best weighted blankets for children and teens so that other parents who are looking for natural or supplemental ways to encourage or lengthen sleep for their children could find some much-needed relief.

I also wanted to provide options for parents who desperately want to ease their children’s physical stress, emotional distress, chronic pain, nightmares, night terrors, sensory processing issues, autism, ADHD and hyperactivity, restlessness, agitation, insomnia, wakefulness, sleep disorders, or racing thoughts.

After much research, I have chosen the Sensory Goods Weighted Blanket for Children and Teens as one that I will recommend to parents for their children in the future.

The thing I like most about the Sensory Goods blanket is that it is affordable for parents who have more than one child. The creators take pride in their work, and appear to have excellent craftsmanship with very little complaints from consumers.

Most of the reviews on Amazon praise the quality of the materials and blankets, and most parents report that their children love the coziness and comfortable quality of this blanket.

And, while I do not have personal or client experience with this particular blanket, reviewers have stated that it is obvious that these blankets are made with meticulous care. Another thing that stood out to me is the kid-friendly, fun patterns.

These blankets are modern and hip, along with being soft and versatile. And, even if a young child has an “accident” overnight, this blanket can be quickly tossed into the washer machine.

Moreover, the beads appear to be small enough and the pockets sewn well enough that there is not a lot of leakage or uneven weight distribution. Each blanket is custom-made to fit that specific child’s personality, so it is possible for your child to choose his or her pattern and colors.

Moreover, there are many different weights and sizes available for children, teens, and even adults, so parents can use the blankets too! The blankets are “Made in the USA,” and being an American, I am always pleased to see something made and sold in this country.

Because of the high quality and artistry of the blankets, and the fun patterns and comfortable design, the Sensory Goods Blanket for Children and Teens made it onto my list of best kid’s weighted blankets.

Especially Designed for Kids Who Suffer From:

  • Sleeplessness & Alertness

Comfort

  • Fleece/flannel combination to keep your child cool in the summertime and warm in the wintertime
  • Filled with tiny sand-like glass beads that are evenly distributed throughout the blanket
  • Uses gravity-induced pressure to produce a natural sleep aid, so your child can relax and fall asleep faster and easier, and sleep for a longer amount of time

Available Weights & Sizes (48” x 30,”52” x 40,” 58” x 41” & 66” x 42”)

  • 4 lbs.
  • 5 lbs.
  • 6 lbs.
  • 7 lbs.
  • 8 lbs.
  • 9 lbs.
  • 10 lbs.

Available Colors

  • Domingo/Multi
  • Fido
  • Harrington/Blue
  • Owls
  • Soccer/Black
  • Soccer/Purple
  • Zebra

Pros

  • Looks like a normal blanket, so no one will realize it is a weighted blanket
  • Available in small and large sizes
  • Children with or without special needs or health issues can comfortably use this weighted blanket
  • A high level of craftsmanship
  • Each blanket is custom-made to fit your child’s comfort level and preferences
  • Glass beads make the pressure feel softer than standard poly-pellets, and the weight is evenly distributed in a quilted pattern hidden within the blanket
  • Cute and comfortable
  • May also be beneficial for children who do not have special needs but who simply like heavy blankets
  • Fun prints and colors will attract younger children

Cons

  • Runs small, so if you have a petite child, his or her feet may hang out from the blanket
  • May not be as comfortable as depicted –your child may have trouble lying under it for long periods of time
  • Does not come with a duvet cover

Notes

  • Blankets should never be placed over the head and are not recommended for children under 2.
  • Adult sizes available – check Amazon for more sizes and weights
  • If you are unsure, choose a blanket with low pressure at 6% to 8% of your child’s body weight. If you think your child needs more pressure, try a medium pressure blanket at 9% to 11% of your child’s body weight. If think your child needs even more weight, try a blanket that is 12% to 13% of his or her body weight. But never exceed 15% of your child’s body weight!
Click here to see today's price for the Sensory Goods Weighted Blanket on Amazon

6. Sensory Bed Sheet for Kids Compression (Alternative to Weighted Blankets)

418InewA+AL. SL500

Like some of the weighted blankets listed above, I do not have personal or client experience with this particular product. However, after thorough research and reading the reviews and researching the benefits of the Sensory Bed Sheet for Kids, I believe I have found one that I can confidently add to my list of the best weighted blankets for kids.

I chose this product because it appears to be an “alternative” to the traditional weighted blanket. This sleep aid is not a heavy blanket, rather, it’s a lighter version in the form of a bed sheet.

If your child doesn’t do well with a lot of pressure or heaviness on their body (specifically on the legs), this is a great alternative.

The Sensory Bed Sheet for Kids attracted me because many of my parents reported that the traditional weighted blanket was slightly, moderately, or significantly too heavy or hot for their children.

The good news is this weighted bed sheet appears to remedy this problem. According to Amazon reviewers, this bed sheet is light and airy and not too binding or restrictive.

In addition, your child will have more wiggle room than they would have with a traditional weighted blanket. It’s also comfortable and stretchy with an even compression (pressure).

It’s gender neutral, so it doesn’t come with a bunch of cool patterns and designs, but any gender can use it, so both sisters and brothers can use the same blanket without fear of it being “too girly” or “too manly” for them.

It also comes in a variety of weights and lengths, so it is suitable for young children. Note: It is not suitable for children under 3, however.

Lastly, it is machine washable, because, as all parents know, “accidents” do happen sometimes. You can quickly and easily throw it in the wash if it gets dirty and it will retain its shape, form, and softness.

So, after doing my research, I am confident that I will recommend this weighted blanket alternative to my parents whose children need the extra “pressure” to relax, fall asleep, and stay asleep all night, but who do not like the hotness or heaviness that comes with traditional weighted blankets.

Especially Designed for Kids Who:

  • Tend to worry so much about things that they are unable to fall asleep
  • Find traditional weighted blankets too hot, heavy, or restrictive, but benefit from added pressure or weight.
  • Are looking for an alternative to a traditional weighted blanket

Comfort

  • Adjustable, stretchable “pocket” that lies over a mattress
  • Comes with adjustable touch pressure compression that comforts your child and stimulates their mind and body so they can drift into a relaxing sleep
  • Less constrictive than traditional weighted blankets
  • Has adjustable straps
  • Light and breathable
  • Is made of nylon and spandex fabric
  • Stretchy, so your child can easily move beneath it
  • Quick and easy set up –each bed sheet features a neat back sheet that wraps around the bed mattress and adjusts to suit your child’s comfort level
  • Uses compression or pressure instead of weight from glass or sand beads or poly-pellets

Note: If your child has a sensory processing issue or a health condition, consult your child’s physician, psychologist, or occupational therapist prior to use. You, your child, and their doctor will know if this bed sheet will be beneficial for them.

Available Sizes

  • Twin-Size (Special Supplies & Amazon)
  • Full-Size (Special Supplies & Amazon)
  • Queen-Size (Special Supplies)

Available Colors

  • Grey (Special Supplies & Amazon)
  • Blue (Special Supplies)

Pros

  • Not as heavy, hot, or restrictive as a traditional weighted blanket
  • Deep touch compression that grows with your child
  • Can be used with both genders (gender neutral)

Cons

  • Does not come with a duvet cover
  • Does not come in a variety of colors or patterns (only comes in grey on Amazon or blue and grey from Special Supplies)
  • Does not come with a lot of Amazon reviews (at this time)
  • Is not as heavy as a traditional weighted blanket
  • Not recommended for children under 3
Click here to see today's price for the Sensory Bed Sheet for Kids on Amazon

 


What is the Purpose of Weighted Blankets?

The purpose of this type of blanket is to relax your body and mind so you sleep more soundly.

How Do They Work?

Weighted blankets typically have glass, sand, or plastic pellets sewn into squares within their linings. The pellets add bulk to the blankets, causing them to weigh between 4 (for young children) and 30 pounds (for adults).

This design helps evenly distribute pressure across the body, which according to research[1], may help ease anxiety, pain, sensory issues, stress, restlessness, insomnia, and other ailments in some people.

Another study[2] examined the effects of sensory rooms to help ease anxiety and distress in child psychiatric patients and found that these rooms, along with weighted blankets, helped reduce misbehavior, emotional distress, physical distress, and anxiety.

According to the researchers, the use of weighted blanket significantly decreased distress and clinician-rated anxiety in children with mental health issues.

Similarly, another study[3] on the use of weights to ease psychological and physical distress found that children who wore weighted vests experienced a significant reduction in ADHD symptoms – i.e. inattention, hyperactivity, behavioral problems, and impulsivity.

What Does It Feel Like to Have a Weighted Blanket on Top of You?

For many, it feels like a warm, soothing hug, or as if you are being held while you sleep. Keep in mind that occupational and physical therapists have been using weighted blankets for decades to help autistic children and teens combat sleeplessness, anxiety, and sensory processing issues.

So, if your child or teen suffers from anxiety, sleep issues, chronic stress, or sensory issues, it may be worth it to invest in a weighted blanket.

If you are interested in or are planning to purchase one of these blankets for your child, make sure the blanket is no heavier than 10% of your child’s weight.

Caution!!!

If the blanket is too heavy for your child, it could trigger new problems or worsen old ones. Also, consult with your child’s pediatrician, psychologist, or physical therapist if you plan to use to the blanket in conjunction with a prescribed treatment plan.

What Similarities Exist Between Almost All Weighted Blankets for Kids?

Before we delve into my selection of the best weighted blankets for kids, allow me to highlight below some similar characteristics that typically exist in all or almost all weighted blankets, regardless of their size, shape, and weight.

All Weighted Blankets are Designed to Help Children and Teens With:

  • General Sleep Issues, Insomnia and Other Sleep Disorders
  • ADHD
  • Restlessness
  • Hyperactivity
  • Racing Thoughts
  • Depression
  • Agitation
  • Wakefulness
  • Bedtime, General & Separation Anxiety
  • Chronic Stress
  • Sensory Processing Issues, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) & Autism
  • Nightmares & Night Terrors

General Comfort Characteristics of Most Weighted Blankets for Children

  • Weighted inserts to help evenly distribute the weight
  • Micro-beads do not make noise as your child moves at night, ensuring that they remain soundly asleep
  • Triggers sound sleep
  • Fits toddler, twin, standard, queen, and king beds
  • Soft and comfortable material
  • Quality materials, so the blanket is well-made and durable
  • Good temperature control, so your child will not overheat overnight

General Health Benefits Associated with Weighted Blankets for Kids:

  • May provide relief and comfort for restless children
  • Comfortable and calming, so ideal for most sleep problems
  • A natural sleep aid
  • Promotes sound, all-night sleep
  • May help children who are very tense and struggle to relax and fall asleep
  • May also be beneficial for children who do not have special needs, but who simply like heavy blankets
  • May help relieve your child’s stress, anxiety, frustration, distress, and tension, so he or she sleeps better at night and is more focused during the day
  • May reduce overstimulation, sensory issues, chronic pain and other health-related symptoms
  • May make your child feel more safe and secure at night
  • May help your child get a good night’s rest and awaken feeling refreshed
  • May provide benefits to you, as the parent. When your child sleeps through the night, you gain more shut eye as well. As a result, you are better prepared for the next day
  • Promotes calmness and relaxation

Common Pros That Almost All Children’s Weighted Blankets Share

  • Affordable for many parents
  • May relieve stress and increase serenity
  • Comes in a variety of weights and sizes, so it can accommodate your child or teen
  • Is machine washable, so it’s easy to clean
  • Surrounds the body like a tight hug and makes your child feel safe and secure
  • Works well for children who have experienced trauma or those who suffer from depression or anxiety
  • Provides your child with longer and deeper sleep, so he or she feels rested and ready to tackle the day’s tasks
  • Improves sleep quality, so your child sleeps longer and more deeply
  • Is machine-washable, so it’s easy to clean if your young child wets the bed or has an overnight “accident”
  • Is noiseless or makes minimum noise with movement
  • May help reduce your child’s restlessness
  • Evenly distributed weight throughout the blanket
  • Not too heavy or too hot for most children
  • Feels like a warm bear hug or a gentle massage on top of your child
  • Soothing for most children

Common Cons That Almost All Children’s Weighted Blankets Share

  • Can be too warm for children who are “hot-natured”
  • May be too uncomfortable for some children
  • May not provide comfort to some children with mental or physical health issues
  • Can be expensive.
  • Beads may shift around in the blanket
  • Beads may be hard to clean up if they spill from the blanket
  • Beads may be too loud for children who are sensitive to sounds
  • Material may rip easily, leading to leakage
  • May not evenly distribute (like advertised) throughout the blanket. As a result, some areas of the blanket may be empty.
  • May be too heavy or constricting for your child to move or adjust
  • May be smaller than advertised
  • May have stitching and pocket problems

In Summary

There are many different types of weighted blankets and weighted bed sheets available for children and teens. After speaking to my adult and child clients, I have determined that some benefits can be gleaned from adding moderate pressure or weight to the body.

Some of these benefits include increased calmness, stress and pain relief, better and longer sleep, better daytime focus and concentration, fewer mood swings and agitation, fewer nightmares, reduced racing thoughts and bedtime restlessness, less hyperactivity and impulsivity, reduced anxiety and depression, improved behavior, sensory stimulation, etc.

It is important to understand that weighted blankets or bed sheets may not work for all children, so it’s important that you consult with your child’s physician if you are thinking about purchasing a weighted blanket for your child or teen.

A medical or health professional will know whether added weight or pressure will benefit your child. As for my own experiences with weighted blankets, I have found that they have helped both my child and adult clients.

My child clients have been able to sleep more soundly at night, and as a result, awaken rested and in a better mood.

My adult clients have also benefited from their child’s lower stress levels and improved sleep quality. The parents reported to me that they also feel less stressed and more rested and relaxed when their children are able to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep all night.

Because their children are more relaxed and calm, they are also more relaxed and calm, and have lower levels of stress. As a result of the weighted blankets, both my adult and child clients are better able to deal with any emotional issues and obstacles that come their way.

References:

  1. Mullen, B., Champagne, T., Krishnamurty, S., Dickson, D., & Gao, R. X. (2008). Exploring the safety and therapeutic effects of deep pressure stimulation using a weighted blanket. Occupational Therapy in Mental Health, 24(1), 65-89. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J004v24n01_05
  2. Novak, T., Scanlan, J., McCaul, D., MacDonald, N., & Clarke, T. (2012). Pilot study of a sensory room in an acute inpatient psychiatric unit. Australasian Psychiatry20(5), 401–406. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1039856212459585#articleCitationDownloadContainer
  3. Reynolds, S., Lane, S. J., & Mullen, B. (2015). Effects of deep pressure stimulation on physiological arousal. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 69. Retrieved from https://ajot.aota.org/article.aspx?articleID=2247281