I started thinking about what a special time this Holiday season is but also how stressful it can be if you have a child with sensory processing challenges. I felt inclined to write a post on some simple ways that could help…
-Prepare them as best you can for what the day holds in store. Explain to them what the day will look like. During play act out some of the events that will happen and things they may be able to do that can help them from becoming overstimulated. Visuals are an excellent tool so you could use a visual schedule or color out some of scenarios with your child. Anything that helps your child to become more familiar with the day ahead.
-“But first heavy work” I’m sure there are many that have heard this phrase! Try to provide your child with opportunities to get in heavy work especially before going to the place that may overstimulate them. Have them help you carry and push items, do a mini obstacle course that involves crawling, jumping, rolling, etc. remember that the effects from sensory input like this does not last all day so try to remember to give them opportunities throughout the busy day. Try an animal walk race, jumping contest, or simply jumping jacks. I also like to tell my kids to see if they can push the wall over, they get great prop input pushing against the wall.
-Try to bring or have some simple “tools” that can help your child. A few favs-crazy straws-these are a great way for your child to get proprioceptive input especially during meal time, drinking from these is heavy work! Gum-if your child is able to chew gum safely it’s a great little tool to keep around again providing heavy work that we may not think of. Small fidget toys/squeeze or stress balls-these are a good way to keep children busy if excepted to sit at table. Weighted lap blankets or vibrating huggable stuffed animals-these items that can sit on child’s lap and provide comfort and calming.
-Let them have a quiet/safe place to go that is removed from the overstimulating area. Show and tell them about this place ahead of time. Have a few items there for the child that are calming and re-organizing. Things you may include in the space..dim lighting, calming music or silence, weighted blankets/compression blankets, fidget toys , a crash pad, a soothing light tool like a salt lamp or lava lamp. It may be necessary for you to take time and go to this safe place with your child to help them calm and recollect.
-Remember no matter what it is ALWAYS ok to remove you and your child from a situation that is causing sensory overload. If you decide to leave the event all together then give yourself credit for knowing what your child needed at that time. If you decide to stay some things you can try….take your child outside or in a quiet room and do some deep breathing exercises or simply blow some bubbles, provide them with some bear hugs and calming squeezes to help them calm. Let them take the time they need to clam and recollect.
If the Holiday Season is a time that brings more anxiety than joy for you and your family please know you are not alone! We hope that the community we are building here can help provide you with resources and connect you with others that can relate.