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.
