At a middle school in Förslöv, in northern Skåne, weighted vests were tested for a period of time with the aim of helping students improve their focus and concentration. The trial yielded positive results, and the school decided to purchase a number of vests and use them as a long-term teaching aid.
A weighted vest is a cognitive aid for people with various diagnoses, such as motor restlessness, autism, and ADHD. Research shows that children who use a weighted vest perform better in school and that it helps the user concentrate more easily, feel calm during class, or sit through an entire meal.
Fiber-weighted vest was developed by the assistive technology company Novista of Sweden. The vest was designed to be discreet and look like a regular piece of clothing, and its padding is soft to ensure it is comfortable to wear.
“A teacher at the school said that the vest became a natural part of the classroom. The students thought it looked good, and many said it felt comfortable to wear,” says Niklas Sundström, Product Specialist at Novista.
The vest is a cognitive aid that makes use of the body’s built-in functions.
– Our weighted vest was developed in consultation with psychiatrists and stress therapists and features a Velcro waistband that fastens around the waist. This takes the weight off the back and shoulders while providing a sense of being embraced, much like a hug. “The embrace affects the body’s sense of movement and position (proprioceptive senses), and the wearer experiences a sense of calm and finds it easier to concentrate,” Niklas continues.
Novista is actively working to lend vests to schools that are interested in testing how they work.
“We know it’s hard to know how a fiber-weighted vest feels and works for someone without trying it on, which is why we offer organizations the chance to test a few fiber-weighted vests for a couple of weeks before making a purchase. That way, you know it works,” Niklas concludes.
Would your school like to try using weighted vests? Try a fiber-weighted vest free of charge for 14 days! For schools, preschools, and other educational institutions, we also offer a 10% discount on your order if you register an account with us. Enter the code novistaskola10 at checkout. Learn more about trying out weighted vests at school here or contact us at info@novista.se or 0431-49 13 10 for more information.