40% of those kids are nonverbal. Autism varies per diagnosis, and each child is unique. Families learn to cope with their diagnosis in different ways.
When Cara and Dan Burnham’s son Rowan was younger, they knew something was wrong.
“He was actually very verbal,” said Cara Burnham, the owner of Sensational Sewing Studio LLC. “He met many goals, but some of those fine motor skills were delayed, and his eye contact at that time was very poor.”
Rowan was diagnosed with autism when he was around four years old. Cara said Rowan learned to read when he was two years old. According to the Center for Disease Control, Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Autism can affect how one behaves, communicates, interacts, and learns. It is a spectrum because there are different levels, and it affects each person differently.
Through Rowan’s diagnosis, the Burnhams are helping other families manage their own kid’s autism with their weighted blankets. Cara Burnham said she went to school for fashion design and trained in bridal design. Her goal was to create a formal wear service, and because of her son’s diagnosis, she is using her skills for the blankets.
Sensational Sewing Studio LLC started in March 2025. The blankets come in different sizes and different weights.
Cleveland Clinic said some studies show using a weighted blanket can reduce anxiety because of deep pressure stimulation. This stimulation is a firm, tactile sensory input like hugs that calms the nervous system and improves focus.
“The autism community, ADHD community, has found them very helpful, especially our portable ones, because they can be worn in this classroom,” said Cara.
The weighted blankets are made with millions of little beads that are placed in dozens to hundreds of little pockets. Burnham makes each weighted blanket by hand and custom to the client.
Rowan has been using a weighted blanket for years. Now he’s 13, and he said they still help him.
“When I’m stressed out, I typically, you know, pull one up, but stay under it or go and snuggle or hug mom,” said Rowan.
While the Burnhams continue to care for their son, Cara said making weighted blankets has become a family activity where Rowan and their daughter Eve all chip in.
The blankets are sold online, at pop-up events, and at the Sensational Sewing Studio LLC sensory store.
Cara said the blankets have been a way for them to connect with other families who understand the journey they are going through. Sensational Sewing Studio LLC also teaches sewing classes to kids and adults.
“As a community, we need to continue to be educated and update our language and make sure that we’re recognizing the whole person, potential skills, abilities, gifts, and, really promoting that awareness as well as the acceptance,” said Cara.
Cara said she and her husband continue to advocate for her son because this is a life they live every day.