Connecting for Kids - How To: Supporting Sensory Differences

how to support children with sensory differences

Sensory issues affect an average of 1 in 6 children in the United States today. Children who struggle with sensory differences have trouble processing information received through the senses. For example, a child with a sensory aversion to loud sounds may cover his ears and hide from a noisy holiday party.

Common Challenges

Connecting for Kids families who have a child with sensory differences report that some of the most difficult challenges for them during the holidays are:

Dealing with Behavior Issues Resulting from Sensory Overload (for example, when a child melts down at the holiday dinner table because the noise, smells, tastes or even the feeling of his or her clothes are just too much)
Educating Extended Family/Friends Who Don't Understand (for example, dealing with a family member who is offended when a child refuses their hug)

Providing Sensory Input Despite Routine and Environment Changes (for example, keeping a sensory diet while traveling)

Featured Resource

The Connecting for Kids Sensory Awareness Program helps families to identify "red flags" for sensory processing differences using a quick guide. Families can use this guide to talk to their child's primary care provider and learn more.

How to Help

If you are hosting a child with sensory issues for the holidays or looking for ways to make the season go smoother for your own child, our families suggest:

Things to Do Ahead of Time - For Hosts

Safe Spaces

As introduced in the Anxiety, Behavior and Social Challenges section, a safe area can give a child and his or her family a place to decompress away from sensory inputs that trigger overstimulation. Any quiet room, away from crowds and noise, will work. Or, if a room is unavailable, you could go for a walk, take a break in the car or hang out in the back yard.

Sensory seekers (kids who need extra sensory input to organize) may also appreciate an invitation to jump on the back yard trampoline or squeeze some Play Doh.

Avoid Peak Crowds

If you're planning a gathering somewhere else (for example, going to see the mall Santa), look for times when things are less crowded.

Many places now offer sensory friendly opportunities or you can visit attractions before/after the crowded times. It may take a call ahead and a little planning, but making your child feel more comfortable will be worth it.

Empower Yourself with Information

Communicating in advance with friends and family can help to make encounters a more positive experience for struggling children. If you're looking for help to talk about sensory issues, there are a number of books available (for example, "The Out of Sync Child") or try using a simple info-graphic, like this one.

Things to Do Ahead of Time - For Families

Pack Your Sensory Diet

If you are traveling for the holidays, make sure that favorite sensory items are packed to go with you. Consult with your child's occupational therapist for alternatives if a particular sensory item or activity doesn't travel well.

Expect Clothing Issues

For children with sensory issues, finding clothing that feels comfortable but still fits the expectations for holiday dress can be difficult or even impossible. Stick to comfortable, preferred clothes whenever you can.

Additional Resources

Articles

5 Tips to Reduce Sensory Meltdowns During the Holidays (Growing Hands-on Kids)
8 Ways Not to Find A Winter Coat for Your Child with Sensory Issues (Friendship Circle)
Holiday Planner Download: 6 Weeks of Tips to Help Your Child with Sensory Processing Issues Through the Holidays (Understood)
Managing Sensory Issues in Children with ADHD During the Holidays (Health Central)
Sensory Strategies for Surviving the Holiday Season (Sensory Processing Disorder Website)

Back to the Winter Holidays Inclusion Guide.

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