Coping Strategies for Sensory Overload 

The constant bombardment of sights, sounds, smells, and touch can be extremely distressing and can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and even panic.

When a child is experiencing sensory overload it can be extremely challenging especially with busy social activities. There are sensory strategies that can help a child cope and manage their sensory overload.

These sensory strategies can be used by anyone but are very helpful for children who have sensory processing disorder, autism, ADHD, or anxiety disorders.

It can be difficult to identify your child's sensory triggers at first but it will become more easier for you over time. it is so important to be able to identify your child's sensory triggers that are causing them to have sensory overload. They could be having sensory overload from strong smells or bright lights or maybe because they are in a crowded space. Once you identify your child's triggers you can try to avoid the trigger or or minimize exposure to their sensory triggers.

 Deep breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques can be effective in reducing the impact of sensory overload. Ask your child to take slow and deep breaths because it can help to calm their nervous system and bring their body into a more relaxed state. Mindfulness activities like focusing in the present moment and tuning out external sensory input can help reduce your child's overwhelming feelings and sensory overload.

Signs Of Sensory Overload

Having a safe space can be helpful for a child who is experiencing sensory overload. This could be a quiet room in your home or a corner where your child can retreat to when they are feeling overwhelmed. This space should be free from your child's triggers and have items that are comforting and calming for your child like soft blankets, dim lighting, or some soothing music that they enjoy.

If sensory overload is impacting your child's life, please seek professional help from an occupational therapists because they can provide sensory strategies and techniques to help your child cope and manage their sensory overload. Coping with sensory overload can be very  challenging for a child but there are coping strategies and tools to help manage and reduce sensory overload.  

DISCLAIMER: I have learned a lot over the years but I am still learning. Always do your own research and exercise sound judgment. I am not an occupational therapist or a physician. I am an adult who has sensory processing disorder, a sensory parent and a Grandma. The information on this website is not medical advice and does not replace the information that your child's therapists or medical professionals give you. These are just ideas that I have learned myself over the years of being a parent and an adult living with SPD. If you are concerned for your child, please always seek medical attention through a family doctor, pediatrician or therapist. This website is for awareness and support purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different sensory needs. Please always consult with a professional. 

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