My Go-To Sensory Tools for Music Therapy - Motive in Tampa, FL

motivemusictherapy
Jul 28
2 min read

Supporting Regulation, Engagement, and Joy in Every Session

By Motive Music Therapy | Tampa, FL | Tampa Music Therapy

At Motive Music Therapy, we believe that music is powerful—but when combined with intentional sensory tools, it becomes transformative. Whether we’re working with children with autism, sensory processing challenges, or emotional regulation goals, having the right tools on hand can help every client feel grounded, safe, and successful.

Here are a few of my favorite sensory tools I’ve been loving lately in my sessions at Motive Music Therapy (inspired by a recent post on our Instagram: @motive.musictherapy):

🎧 Noise-Reducing Headphones - Tampa Music Therapy

Why I love them: Some clients are more sensitive to sound, and music therapy can be a lot for their nervous systems. These headphones help create a controlled listening environment or even just provide relief during transitions.

How we use them in sessions:

During high-energy group music-making
When a client needs a calming break
To reduce background noise and increase focus

🖐️ Sensory Fidgets (Putty, Spinners, Textured Balls)

Why I love them: Fidgets help with self-regulation, focus, and grounding—especially during transitions or non-preferred tasks like writing or verbal processing.

In the music therapy setting:

Clients squeeze putty while we sing social stories
Use textured items to keep hands engaged during call-and-response songs
Calm busy hands during improvisation or songwriting

🪘 Weighted Drum Mallets or Lap Pads

Why I love them: Weighted tools provide deep pressure input, which is incredibly regulating for many of our clients. In true Tampa music therapy style, we love to use drums!

Examples in sessions:

Using a weighted lap pad while playing a hand drum
Giving clients weighted mallets to improve control and focus
Helping reduce restlessness during longer sessions or groups

🌀 Visual Timers + Visual Schedules

Why I love them: These tools support predictability and decrease anxiety—especially for kids who thrive on routine.

Music therapy uses:

Set clear expectations for session flow (“First we sing hello, then we do movement, then goodbye song”)
Help with transitions between instruments or activities
Support independence and communication

🧼 Scented Sensory Items (like lavender playdough or scented beanbags)

Why I love them: Combining olfactory input with music can boost relaxation and emotional regulation.

In practice:

Introduce during calming songs or cool-down activities
Use as part of a mindfulness exercise paired with live guitar or vocal work
Offer choice-making opportunities around preferred scents

Why Sensory Tools + Music Therapy Work So Well

At the core of music therapy is connection and regulation—and sensory tools bridge the gap between feeling overwhelmed and feeling ready to engage. When used thoughtfully, these items enhance attention, reduce anxiety, and make music therapy sessions more accessible and enjoyable for every client.

Want to Learn More?

Are you a parent or caregiver in the Tampa, FL area looking for personalized, sensory-informed music therapy for your child? We’d love to connect!

📍Serving Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater and surrounding areas🎶

Board-Certified Music Therapists💬

Follow along for tips + ideas: @motive.musictherapy

Motive Music Therapy specializes in creative, evidence-based sessions that support emotional growth, communication, and sensory integration. These sensory tools are just a few of the ways we adapt each session to meet your child where they are.