Sensory Overwhelm: How to Spot it and What to Do About It
In a world that often feels like an explosion of colors, sounds, and textures, children navigate a sensory playground that can sometimes be overwhelming. Imagine a bustling playground alive with laughter and chatter, swings swaying (and squeaking) in the breeze, and children running, climbing, sliding, spinning and using their “outdoor voices.” It's a scene filled with wonder and excitement, but for some children, it can quickly become a storm of sensory overload.
Sensory overwhelm refers to a condition where a child's sensory system becomes overloaded by environmental stimuli, such as sounds, lights, textures, smells, or even social interactions. This overload can cause distress, anxiety, and even meltdowns in children, making it essential for parents to be aware of the signs and respond with sensitivity and support.
Spotting the Signs
Every child is unique, and their reactions to sensory overwhelm may vary. However, here are some common signs to look out for:
Heightened sensitivity: Your child may display extreme reactions to certain sensations, such as becoming overly bothered by certain textures, sounds, or smells. They may cover their ears or retreat from crowded or noisy places.
Emotional distress: Sensory overwhelm often triggers emotional responses, including frustration, irritability, or anxiety. Your child might have difficulty calming down or might have mood swings or outbursts.
Avoidance behavior: Children may actively avoid or resist certain activities or environments that trigger sensory overwhelm. They might refuse to wear certain clothing, dislike going to crowded places, or have
difficulty with transitions.Poor concentration and focus: Sensory overwhelm can make it challenging for children to concentrate and engage in tasks. They may appear easily distracted, restless, or have difficulty following instructions.
Physical symptoms: Some children may exhibit physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, or increased agitation when exposed to overwhelming sensory stimuli.
Supporting Your Child
As a parent, there are several strategies you can implement to help your child to manage sensory overwhelm:
Observe and listen. Pay attention to your child's behaviors and cues. By understanding their triggers and thresholds, you can make informed decisions about the environment and activities that work best for them.
Create a sensory-friendly space. Designate a calm and quiet area where your child can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. Fill it with soothing elements like soft lighting, comfortable seating, and sensory tools like stress balls or fidget toys.
Establish predictability and routines. Maintaining consistent routines can help your child feel more secure and prepared. Let them know what to expect and provide warnings before transitioning to new activities or environments.
Teach relaxation techniques. Help your child develop coping strategies to manage overwhelming sensations. Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or engaging in calming activities like drawing or listening to soft music can be beneficial.
Communicate and empathize. Encourage open communication with your child about their sensory experiences. Create a safe space for them to express their feelings and provide reassurance, letting them know it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
Foster positive relationships. Strong connections with loved ones can provide a sense ofsecurity for children facing sensory overwhelm. Engage in activities that promote bonding, such as reading together, playing games, or enjoying shared hobbies.
Break tasks into smaller steps. If a challenge seems big and overwhelming, tackling one small step at a time gives your child a goal to focus on and can help it seem more manageable. When under stress, it’s hard to function and complete tasks that are easy during non-stressful times. It’s okay to adjust expectations and provide support and assistance during stressful times.
Collaborate with professionals. Seek guidance from pediatric occupational therapists, who specialize in sensory processing. We can provide personalized strategies and activities to help your child regulate their sensory experiences.
As Ross W. Greene, PhD. says, “Kids do well when they can.”
They aren’t GIVING you a hard time, they are HAVING a hard time.
Understanding this can help you remain empathetic and able to support your children when they most need you. If you notice your child is having a hard time and is experiencing sensory overwhelm, we are here to support you so you can better support them. Checkout our free sensory co-regulation guide to get started!
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.
