Increased focus and improved concentration—the use of weighted vests in school can make a big difference in the learning environment, students’ well-being, and, ultimately, their academic performance. That’s according to Niklas Sundström, a product specialist at Novista.
“More students than you might think could benefit from a weighted vest”
– We actively work with schools across the country, lending weighted vests to those who are interested, sharing information about the vests, and following up on the results. There is a great deal of interest and curiosity about the weighted vests, and more and more schools are reaching out to borrow vests so their students can try them out.
What are the benefits of a weighted vest?
Weight vests for improved concentration and calmness
– The weighted vest wraps around the body, much like a hug, and affects the body’s proprioceptive senses—that is, the sense of movement and position. The pressure helps the muscles relax, relieves pressure on the back and shoulders, and can lead to increased body awareness. Research shows that children and adolescents with ADHD who use a weighted vest find it easier to concentrate, feel calm during class, or manage to sit through an entire meal, Niklas explains.
Reduce Stress & Anxiety with a Weighted Vest
Novista’s weighted vest was developed in consultation with psychiatrists and stress therapists and is classified as a medical device. But Niklas believes that many students could benefit from wearing a weighted vest—not just those with a diagnosis or whose needs are outwardly apparent.
– In my experience, many more students than people realize could benefit from a weighted vest. People often think of children who are very visible and vocal in the classroom, but we’ve seen that even quieter students would benefit from a weighted vest. These might be students who feel a lot of anxiety and stress inside, who set high standards for themselves, or who have trouble concentrating on certain tasks. A weighted vest can help the body find inner calm.
Research shows improved behavior and greater focus on the task at hand
Research in this area suggests that there is a positive effect for children who use weighted vests in a school setting. In particular, a clear effect has been observed in children with ADHD and autism, where it was found that the vest increased attention and improved the children’s ability to focus on the tasks they were given.
A South African study of 30 children with ADHD found that the use of weighted vests had a positive effect on the overall behavior of the children included in the study. It was also found to increase attention and improve the children’s ability to focus on the tasks they were given. A 2014 study conducted in Taiwan involving 110 children with ADHD reached a similar conclusion. The study shows that weighted vests have a positive effect on children’s attention and ability to focus on tasks in a school setting.
Findings from a number of smaller studies support this hypothesis. For example, in a study from the United States, four students with documented attention difficulties and hyperactivity were asked to complete various fine-motor tasks in the classroom, both with and without a weighted vest. Using a stopwatch, researchers measured the students’ focus on the tasks. A total of twelve tasks per student were completed: six with the weighted vest and six without. The results showed that concentration on the task increased by 18% to 25% for all four students when they were wearing the weighted vest. In addition, three out of four students said they wanted to continue wearing the weighted vest after the study. Read more about research on weighted vests and weighted blankets here.
Try the weighted vest for free at school
Niklas says that most schools that have borrowed weighted vests from Novista are satisfied with the results—both teachers and students. Some schools refer to the vest as the “math vest,” “reading vest,” or “focus vest” because it is used for specific purposes.
“Guidelines for a Calm Classroom Environment”
– For many schools, the weighted vest has become a routine way to create a calm learning environment, and students often ask for the vest themselves when they enter the classroom. Most students find them soft and comfortable to wear and feel that they have some kind of effect. Of course, weighted vests don’t solve every problem, but they contribute to a calmer school environment and can help students wind down and perform better. Learn more about weighted vests for school-age children here!
News: Weighted collars for children and adults!
Novista has launched a weighted collar—a convenient and effective aid for both children and adults who need extra security and calm in their daily lives. The weighted collar rests comfortably on the shoulders and provides even, deep pressure that can reduce stress, worry, anxiety, and tension in the body. It’s perfect for use at school, at work, or at home to promote relaxation and concentration. Check out our weighted collars for children and adults here!
