Preventing restraint collapse (meltdowns)with after-school sensory-friendly routines
Restraint collapse is when a child has held themselves in check throughout their whole school day, navigating their sensory challenges, and then as soon as they are home in their safe space, they allow their dysregulation to show (code word: MELTDOWN). Helping a child cope with this sensory overload after school is important to help them regroup and to give them strategies they can start to use during the school day, as well.
Here's a list of sensory activities and strategies to consider for a sensory-friendly after-school routine:
Quiet time: Start with a calm and quiet environment. Create a designated space where your child can unwind. Consider using soft lighting and soothing music.
Sensory bins: Set up sensory bins with items like rice, beans, or sand for tactile exploration. Add toys, scoops, and containers for play.
Sensory-friendly snacks: Offer snacks with various textures, such as crunchy vegetables, smooth yogurt, or chewy dried fruits.
Deep pressure activities: Activities like gentle hugs, using a weighted blanket, or rolling a therapy ball over their body can provide calming deep-pressure sensory input.
Art and creativity: Encourage drawing, coloring, or playdough sculpting. These activities engage fine motor skills and creativity.
Sensory-friendly toys: Provide toys that can help with sensory regulation, such as stress balls, fidget toys, or sensory bottles.
Outdoor play: Spend some time in the backyard or at a nearby park. Outdoor play provides sensory input through natural exploration.
Sensory story time: Read books with sensory elements like touch-and-feel textures or sound buttons.
Sensory path: Create an indoor sensory path with tape on the floor or cushions for jumping, hopping, and balancing activities.
Music and dance: Play calming music or have a dance party to help your child release excess energy.
Sensory-friendly clothing: Choose soft and comfortable clothing options without scratchy tags or seams that may bother your child.
Visual calming: Use lava lamps, bubble tubes, or calming visual toys to help your child relax.
Breathing exercises: Teach simple deep-breathing exercises to help your child self-regulate.
Bath time: A warm bath with scented bath bombs or bubbles can be calming. Add waterproof toys for sensory play.
Communication: Encourage your child to talk about their day, say how they're feeling, and express any concerns. This can help them process their experiences.
Routine and predictability: Maintain a consistent after-school routine to provide a sense of security and predictability.
Sensory breaks: Throughout the day, offer short sensory breaks to help prevent sensory overload.
Limited screen time: Reduce screen time, especially immediately after school, as screens can be overstimulating.
Trigger monitoring: Pay attention to what might trigger sensory overload and adjust the environment accordingly.
Vestibular input: Incorporate activities like swinging, or swaying on top of a large therapy ball (with assistance).
Observe your child's preferences and sensitivities to tailor these activities accordingly. It's essential to create a safe and supportive environment where your child can unwind and regulate their sensory experiences after school. Consistency and patience are important to help your child regulate and begin to handle their sensory challenges while at school.
Looking for more sensory tools? Check out our FREE sensory co-regulation guide to help steer your child in the right direction to conduct their feelings in the moment.
