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The 4th of July is a fun family holiday but many of our children that struggle with sensory processing often get overstimulated. The sensory system can only tolerate so much “unexpected” input before getting too overwhelmed. A child with an overwhelmed sensory system can look a variety of ways:
Meltdown (crying and screaming)
Asking to leave (avoidance of a situation)
Becoming very shy or reluctant to participate in activities
Having a difficult time being a first time listening (auditory system is overwhelmed)
Biting on shirt, hands or other items (using their oral motor system to regulate)
Being very touchy or clingy to a “safe person” (seeking proprioceptive input)
Demonstrating sensory seeking behaviors (running away, jumping or crashing on the ground and touching everything)
Ways to help you child modulate:
Allow them to have more breaks throughout the day - 5 minute resets can be very helpful when trying not to let your child’s bucket overflow.
Talking to them about the activities of the day and order so they know what is coming.
Talking to your child about expected vs. unexpected behaviors (setting them up for success)
Giving your child a sensory fidget or chewy for transitions (not usually longer than 10 minutes as the input will “wear off”)
Allow your child to have a code word when they need help or guidance in a situation so they don’t feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.
Give your child positive redirection and positive praise. (For example, I love how you are controlling your body, thank you for being a first time listener, I appreciate you using your strategies…)
Joint compressions- Giving your child big hugs or small joint compression can help to re-center and reorganize their sensory systems.
Tips for Fireworks:
Allow your child to wear headphones
Allow your child to pick where they want to sit and try to find a spot where they have room to move around.
Allow your child to watch fireworks on TV without the sound to decrease sensory input
Put on acoustic music with fireworks therefore, there is less overwhelm with unexpected popping of fireworks.
Allow your child to have access to sensory items such as weighted lap pad and or blanket during fireworks.
Showing your child pictures before going so they know what the park or space will look like.
Don’t force it:)
Helpful reminders for our sensory children:
Sun and chlorine can affect your child’s sensory system.
Change in routine and/or decreased sleep can have a large impact on your child’s sensory system.
Unfamiliar situations can be very overwhelming for children.
Inconsistent expectations can lead to more meltdowns and frustrations between both parents and adults.
Mrs.Taylor's 4th of July Activities: (click the picture to purchase)
Happy 4th from the Helping Hands Team!!