Too loose, too tight, wrong fit—kids with sensory issues can be very resistant to clothing that doesn’t feel right on their body. When a child's tactile system (their sense of touch) doesn’t function typically, a tactile sensation that’s no big deal to a neurotypical kid might be a huge deal and very anxiety-provoking. While some prefer the loose feel of an oversized t-shirt, loose cotton shorts or skirts, or Crocs clogs, some kids with sensory issues crave tighter clothing.

"It's scratchy!" "It bunches up!" "I don't want to wear that! It's too loose!" Stressed out by trying to get your child with sensory issues dressed? Some kids with sensory issues are perfectly content being the odd one out wearing the same ratty, too-short sweatpants every day while others yearn to dress like the other kids do but can't bear the tactile sensations of the clothing their peers are wearing. What's a parent to do? Here are some quick tips that can help. Remembe

Are you struggling to get your child with sensory issues to don all that wonderful late fall and winter clothing that will keep her warm when she plays outside? Here’s a tip: Make winter clothing items more tolerable through desensitization and careful attention to textures and tightness. Many people prefer one type of scarf material to another, or prefer gloves to mittens or vice versa. With children who have sensory processing differences, these preferences can be very inte

Have you bought school supplies yet for your child with sensory processing issues? I’m a big believer in recycling the stuff from last year. It’s cheaper, better for the environment, and better for kids who struggle with transitions (for whom “new” is often a problem). A few tips– Watch out for “antibacterial” chemically treated items. I don’t know who decided that a chemical spray on a ruler is necessary to keep kids healthy (actually, it’s just the sort of thing that contri

Many kids have already started the new school year; others are gearing up to do so. I know many of you are nervous about the changes this year. Be sure to pull that copy of RAISING A SENSORY SMART CHILD off your shelf (and pick up a copy for yourself–even for your child’s teacher!) and do take a look at our chapters on advocating for your child at school, organizational issues, and practical solutions for everyday problems. The book is chock full of practical strategies that