occupational therapy
Weighted
Vest Use
Includes:
Recommended Considerations
Protocol for Use
Tracking Form
Wearing Schedule
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Recommended Considerations
for use of
Weighted Vest Protocol & Tracking Form
Permission: The Occupational Therapist should have the permission of
child’s parent/legal guardian before initiating the use of a weighted
vest with child. Documentation of such permission is suggested.
Training: The Occupational Therapist should provide thorough training
to the adult that is placing the child in the vest and monitoring the
use of the vest. Documentation of such training is suggested.
Monitor: The Occupational Therapist should advise the adult that is
directly monitoring the use of the vest to beware of any negative
reactions the child may have. If such occurs the adult should
discontinue use of the vest and notify the Occupational Therapist.
A weighted vest wearing schedule is provided that can be discreetly
posted as a reminder to staff and/or child.
Observation: The Occupational Therapist should periodically observe
the child while he/she is wearing the vest to ensure that the fit is
appropriate, the weight is correct, and the desired results are being
achieved.
Track Response: The Occupational Therapist should consider
instructing the adult to track the child’s response to the use of the
vest to determine if desired positive effects are being achieved.
A tracking form is provided (2 versions).
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WEIGHTED VEST
Protocol for Use
Student Name: __________________________________________ Date of Birth: _________________
Date: ___________ Teacher’s name: _____________________________ Parent/caregiver approval:
Occupational Therapist’s Name: ______________________________________________________
Benefits of Use: Weighted vests have been used for children that have difficulty with sensory
modulation that affects focus and learning. The vest adds sensory input known as proprioception that may
provide a calming effect. This input may help a child achieve an optimal level of arousal for the given task,
thereby supporting a child’s ability to attend and engage in on-task behavior. Weighted vests are commonly
worn intermittently throughout the child’s day.
How to Use:
The vest supplied for ________________________________ is the correct size for their age, weight, and stature.
While wearing the weighted vest the child should have freedom of movement in their shoulders, arms,
hips, and legs.
There are small pockets located on the front and back of the vest. These pockets are designed to
hold the small weight packs.
The small weight packs should be evenly distributed within the pockets. Please do not move the weights
around unless directed to do so by Occupational Therapy.
The total weight should be approximately 5% of the child’s total weight.
________________________________ currently weighs ___________ pounds and therefore requires a total of __________
pounds added to their vest.
Wearing Schedule:
It is recommended that ________________________________ wear the vest at the following frequency throughout the day:
Time vest on Duration Time vest off
Setting(s) for Use:
It is recommended that ________________________________ wear the vest in the following setting(s):
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Precautions:
Discontinue use if child expresses discomfort or displays other unusual reactions. Report this and any
additional concerns or questions to Occupational Therapy immediately.
Additional Information:_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
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WEIGHTED VEST
Tracking Use & Wearing Schedule
Student Name: _____________________________________ Date of Birth: ________________ teacher’s name: _________________________
Occupational Therapist’s Name: ______________________________________________________
Behaviors/effects
Date Time vest duration Time vest Task/
on off activity Moving/ Attention
calming fidgeting to task
Copyright ©2016 Tools to Grow®, Inc. All rights reserved. www.ToolsToGrowOT.com
WEIGHTED VEST
Tracking Use & Wearing Schedule
Student Name: _____________________________________ Date of Birth: ________________ teacher’s name: _________________________
Occupational Therapist’s Name: ______________________________________________________
Time vest Time vest Task/ Behaviors/effects
Date on duration off activity Moving/ Attention
calming fidgeting to task
Copyright ©2016 Tools to Grow®, Inc. All rights reserved. www.ToolsToGrowOT.com
WEIGHTED VEST
Wearing Schedule
Student Name: __________________________________________
Time vest on Duration Time vest off
WEIGHTED VEST
Wearing Schedule
Student Name: __________________________________________
Time vest on Duration Time vest off
WEIGHTED VEST
Wearing Schedule
Student Name: __________________________________________
Time vest on Duration Time vest off
Copyright ©2016 Tools to Grow®, Inc. All rights reserved. www.ToolsToGrowOT.com
