Imagine this scenario: you bring your 5-year-old to a birthday party and within minutes, your previously calm child has turned into a whirling tornado. They’re ignoring directions, bumping into people, and screaming at a pitch you have never even heard. Maybe your child’s teacher has mentioned similar behaviors during group time and free play, but this is the first time you have actually witnessed it. At home, your child is generally calm, solving puzzles or playing with Legos for hours on end—so what on earth is going on?
In overwhelming environments, such as a birthday party full of moving bodies and loud music, a child’s sensory system may struggle to respond appropriately. Sensory modulation is a fundamental component of sensory integration. It refers to the body’s ability to take in information and generate an appropriate response.
Sensory processing issues often go unnoticed until children start school because they are so heavily influenced by their environment. At home, children have some level of control over the sensory input they are exposed to. If the lights are too bright, they can turn them off. If they hate the sound of the vacuum, they can go into a different room. Once children leave their house, they are thrust into busy, multi-sensory environments where they have no control. Suddenly, their sensory system is overwhelmed, leading to disorganized, loud, and out-of-control behaviors. Developing strategies to deal with these situations can help eliminate and lessen meltdowns.
1. Discuss Things Ahead of Time – Talk to your child about the upcoming situation. Create a plan by asking, “How can I help you if your body gets too fast?” Children can be surprisingly good at knowing what they need.
2. Use Visuals – Many kids struggle to process language when their body is overstimulated. Use visual aids like a schedule, a “stop” sign, or simple one-word commands written on paper. These can communicate more effectively than verbal instructions.
3. Gather Some Sensory Tools – Pay attention to what helps your child calm down. Blowing bubbles, giving a big bear hug, or doing yoga poses can be tremendously calming.
4. Leave the Environment – When all else fails, take a break and get out of the chaotic environment. Your child may initially become more upset, as it is often impossible to calm down in the midst of sensory overload.
5. Play Starting/Stopping Games – Teach the brain how to modulate input with games like “Red Light, Green Light,” freeze dance, and freeze tag.
6. Be Patient – A combination of therapy and development will help your child over time. Patience and consistency are key.
7. Consult an Occupational Therapist – Each child’s body responds to sensory input differently. An OT specializing in sensory integration can assess your child’s specific needs and provide tailored strategies.
Here are some solutions to sensory processing challenges.
Overstimulation in Public Places – This can lead to meltdowns or anxiety. Carry a sensory toolkit that includes items like noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, and fidget toys. These can help mitigate sensory overload.
Difficulty Following Verbal Instructions – Some children struggle to follow verbal instructions, which can make everyday tasks challenging. Use visual aids and simple commands. Sometimes, non-verbal communication can be more effective.
Managing Sudden Outbursts – Sudden outbursts can occur without warning, making public outings difficult. Teach and practice calming techniques at home, so they can be used in public. Deep breathing and counting exercises can be highly effective.
Inconsistent Participation in Games/Activities – Children may inconsistently participate in games or activities, leading to frustration. Make these activities a regular part of your child’s routine. Consistency can help them feel more comfortable and confident participating.
We have some item suggestions that can help.
Noise-Canceling Headphones – Noise-canceling headphones can help your child focus better by blocking out distracting background noises. They are especially useful in loud environments or during study time.
Visual Schedules – These schedules provide a clear, visual representation of daily routines and tasks, helping children understand and follow their day more easily. They can be particularly useful for kids who thrive on structure.
Fidget Spinners – Fidget spinners can help children manage stress and stay focused by providing a simple, repetitive motion that keeps their hands busy.
Weighted Blankets – These blankets offer gentle pressure that can have a calming effect on children, helping them relax and sleep better. They are great for kids with anxiety or sensory processing issues.
Blowing Bubbles – A fun and calming activity that can help children take deep breaths, which is great for relaxation and stress relief.
Yoga Mats – Yoga mats provide a comfortable space for your child to practice yoga or other mindfulness activities, promoting physical and mental well-being.
Calming Bottles – Often filled with glitter or other sensory elements, calming bottles can captivate your child’s attention and help them calm down during stressful moments.
These products can make a significant difference in helping your child stay focused and calm. Explore these options to find the best fit for your child’s needs.
Understanding why your child gets overly excited during play is the first step towards helping them manage these overwhelming moments. By implementing these strategies and consulting with professionals, you can create a more supportive environment for your child. If you are looking for personalized advice, consider booking a consultation with a specialist in sensory integration.
Blue Bird Day fosters socialization, sensory regulation, and pre-academic learning in children ages 2-7 years in therapeutic rotations that simulate preschool and kindergarten settings. Our compassionate therapists practice a relationship-based and family-centered approach, provide parent training, and collaborate on goals and individualized intensive treatment plans for your child.
We believe in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary team approach to therapy. A team of occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, dietitians, developmental therapists, behavioral therapists, physical therapists, and therapeutic assistants are created for each child to ensure child and family are fully supported and the best possible results are achieved.
Options for individualized, group and virtual therapy sessions are available as well.
Want to learn more or you have a specific question? Feel free to connect with us here!