A Sensory Vest for Alexander
by Chelane Garcia-Herrada
Nov 22, 2021The CIDE Loan Library, funded by the Colorado Department of Education and Early Intervention Colorado, supports children ages birth – 21 receiving part B or part C services by providing a “try before you buy” experience with AT. Alexander, a one year old receiving part C services, needed some sensory support to help improve his posture. According to his physical therapist, “Alexander needed some help to keep his back straight when sitting and playing.” She found a sensory vest in the Loan Library that would meet his needs, however it was a size too small. CIDE Loan Library staff purchased the vest in the needed size and loaned it to his PT. She immediately saw results after trialing it with him. “With the vest on, Alexander is able to sit with better posture. The compression provided by the vest also helps him attend to activities for longer periods without having to seek out sensory input by moving his body.” After the loan, Alexander’s PT and family explored funding options to purchase their own vest. The Loan Library is proud to support children, such as Alexander, with AT to meet their needs.