Expert: Trey McGowan - 2/20/2008

Question
How long (minutes at a time and number of times per day) do you typically recommend for a 6 year old to wear a neoprene vest?

Answer
Hi there, TMon!

This one, I think, depends on the child. Some will get more help than others, while some will find it confining or troublesome. Give it a few minutes once or twice per day to make sure the child isn't going to reject it, and work your way up from there. Leaving it on 24/7 might be tempting if it's really helpful, but best to keep it to a few periods a day so they can try and adapt to life without the vest on, when there isn't access to it. Say, three times a day for an hour or so, and right before bed to help settle for sleep. Also 'use as necessary' for those times when he's having issues, and needs the comforting pressure. It'll help keep the meltdowns down a lot if you use it *before* they start. Look for signs of stress and use it to help defuse.

One thing I would also suggest is, if the vest is definitely calming, having them wear it during times when you expect there to be a lot of stress and overstimulation. If you're going on a trip, around a lot of people, where there are multiple stimuli, et cetera, having him wear the vest (even if it's under a shirt or coat if you don't feel comfortable trying to explain it) will generally help the child a *lot*.

I would also definitely talk to your doctor about this, just to be sure that they are aware of the treatment (if they aren't the one who gave it to you). It is medically a very safe treatment, certainly, but still best that they know just in case something happens later and they need to treat him away from home.

If you have other questions, feedback, follow-ups, whatever, you can give me a ring! Er, write!

Trey