Sometimes sitting or laying under a weighted blanket is calming to an overstimulated child. Some children with autism find that weighted blankets bring comfort and security. Blankets can be weighted by adding fabric, beans, or foam.

On MyAutismTeam, the social network and online support group for parents of kids with autism, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Weighted blankets are one of the top 10 topics most discussed.

Here are some question-and-answer threads about weighted blankets:

• Does anyone have any insight into what fabric is preferable for a weighted blanket?

• Has anyone traveled internationally with a weighted blanket?

• What does your child have or use to help them feel safe and secure within their surroundings?

Here are some conversations about weighted blankets:

• She yelled and cried for about a half hour, and laid on the floor, so we got the weighted blanket for her to use.

• Last night was a rough one at our house. My daughter was in full panic mode because of the storm and tornadoes.

• He doesn’t like blankets but I heard may trying a weighted blanket may help.

Can you relate?

Have another topic you'd like to discuss or explore? Go to MyAutismTeam today and start the conversation. You'll be surprised just how many others may share similar stories.

Feel free to ask a question here.