Being the thrifty teacher that I am, I am always looking for cost effective ways to supply my classroom with what it needs. In this case, I needed sensory lap belts and found them online for $35-$50 each. Don't know what they are? They are a *lightly* weighted piece of fabric that drapes over a students lap to remind them they are supposed to be sitting. They work on chairs and on the carpet, and do wonders for any sensory kiddos. Well worth the effort to make, but not the money to buy (in my opinion). Not when I can make 5 for the price of one. Granted, I got REALLY inexpensive fabric since there was a fabric store closing near my house. I am dying to make other things for my home out of the other fabrics I bought, but that may have to wait until Spring Break!
What you will need for this project:
- 1 yard of fabric
- storage size baggies
- rice
- thread
- sewing machine
Cut strip to 52 inches. This seems to be a good length for an average Kindergarten aged student. I made a couple a little longer for first and second grades. Next, fold in half the long way with right sides together, and sew 1/4 inch seam on long side only. Turn right side out and place seam in middle of strip. Press.
Fold short ends under 1/2 inch. Press, then top stitch.
Fold edges over 10 inches on each side. Top stitch long edges.
Fill two storage size baggies with rice. I used the cheapest rice I could find at the grocery store. I sealed the baggie then taped it shut also. Insert one baggie in each side, and sew it closed.
Voila! You have your own version of a sensory lap belt!
Betsy
