A Sensory Christmas 

A Sensory Christmas 

Jeanette Loftus 

The Christmas holidays are a fun time full of excitement and...sensory overload too for some of us! For children with sensory processing disorder, colorful bright lights, loud sounds and big crowds of the Christmas season can be very overwhelming and distressing. That's why it's important to think about a child's sensory needs when choosing Christmas gifts and for providing a supportive environment for them throughout the holidays.

We can't eliminate sensory overload throughout the holidays but we can work towards creating a sensory friendly enjoyable Christmas. There are a lot of ideas for parents to try to make the holidays easier for everyone. Christmas should be inclusive for all children to enjoy. 

Minimize the sensory overload by dimming lights, play calming Christmas music and create a quiet space where children can go too if they are feeling overwhelmed. It is important to follow your child's sensory diet throughout the holidays to keep them regulated.

Include sensory activities like swinging and jumping into their holiday routine. Offer children options so they have a sense of self control and practice coping strategies before heading out Christmas shopping. 

There are so many sensory gift ideas to support a child's sensory needs. Choosing gifts that cater to sensory needs can be a thoughtful and beneficial way to celebrate the holidays. 

Children who are sensory seeking crave sensory input. They often seek out movement, deep pressure and intense sensory input. There are a lot of different Christmas gift ideas for sensory seekers! Purchasing a weighted blanket, weighted animal, trampoline, scooters, play dough or sensory swing are all great Christmas gift ideas for sensory seekers.

Sensory avoiders, on the other hand can be easily overwhelmed by sensory input so they usually prefer quiet and calm environments. The best Christmas gift ideas for a sensory avoider would be gifts that promote comfort and reduce sensory overload. Purchasing noise canceling headphones, earplugs, comfortable sensory clothing and soft blankets can all be great gifts for sensory seekers!  

It can be very beneficial to give children who have sensory differences Christmas gifts that are calming and encourage sensory regulation. The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can help a child feel secure and grounded. Sensory fidget tools can offer a discreet way for children to manage sensory input and reduce anxiety. Filled with different color liquids, glitter or toy figurines , calming sensory bottles can be mesmerizing. 

Giving the gift of movement and proprioceptive input can be the best gift ever for a child who has sensory processing disorder. Trampolines, sensory swing, sensory tunnels, yoga balls, balance boards and using wobble cushions can all provide proprioceptive input and help strengthen core muscles, improving balance and coordination.

There are a lot of great sensory gifts ideas for tactile exploration too such as sensory bins, play dough, building blocks, art supplies and bubbles and water tables. 

Don't forget about the parents who take care of children who have sensory differences each day. This time of year can be challenging for them too. Think about purchasing them a gift to support them in their sensory journey. Books about sensory processing can provide valuable information and guidance for parents. They would also appreciate a gift certificate for a massage or cleaning services. These can offer parents a much-needed break or an opportunity for some self-care.

Christmas can be a joyous time of the year for all children, including those children who struggle with sensory processing differences. The goal this Christmas is to adapt and modify your holiday season in a way that promotes inclusion and allows all children to experience the magic of Christmas.