The winter air is losing its chill, which means one thing: Spring is just around the corner. While the expected warmer weather is a welcome sign for many people, for a sensory sensitive child, the change in seasons can be challenging. Warmer weather, longer daylight hours and changes in routine and clothing can all exacerbate sensory sensitivities. If you have a child with sensory processing issues, the following tips can help you alleviate his struggles with a change in seasons, so the arrival of spring is hopeful — not stressful.
Revisit Springtime Clothes Early
Several weeks before the warm weather actually arrives, get your child's spring clothing out of his closet and help him get reacquainted with them. Go through each piece to remind him of what he has worn in previous years, let him physically handle the clothes and have him practice trying them on. Getting used to feeling different fabrics on his skin (e.g., cotton and linen instead of wool or cashmere) will help ease his tactile sensitivity when it comes time to actually wear the clothing. It may also help to wash clothes with fabric softener before he has to wear them, so the fabric feels smoother and softer on the skin.
Prepare for Allergies
Allergies tend to flare up with changes in the weather. So, at your regular pediatrician visit, consult with the doctor about what you can do to alleviate or prevent potential allergic reactions. If your child has severe allergies, she may recommend supplements or medicines that can help ease the symptoms.
Changing routines can be a struggle for any child, but seasonal changes create particular challenges for kids that have sensory processing issues. Taking a few small steps in your home can help alleviate the unpleasant symptoms that sensory sensitive kids deal with during shifts in the weather.
