Addressing Sensory Sensitivities: Practical Solutions for Parents

 

Understanding Sensory Sensitivities

Does your child cover their ears at the sound of the vacuum? Refuse to wear certain clothes? Cry in bright, busy places? If so, they may be experiencing sensory sensitivities — and you're certainly not alone.

Sensory sensitivities happen when a child’s nervous system over- or under-reacts to sensory input such as noise, light, texture, smell, or movement. These reactions are common among neurodivergent children (such as those with autism or ADHD), but can also occur in children without a diagnosis. The good news? There are many practical, gentle ways you can support your child and make everyday life feel calmer and more manageable.

How Sensory Sensitivities Show Up in Daily Life

Sensory challenges don’t always look the same. Here are some everyday examples:

• Covering ears in response to normal sounds like toilets flushing or dogs barking
• Meltdowns in loud, crowded places (like shopping centres or classrooms)
• Avoiding certain clothing textures or refusing to wear socks
• Refusal to touch sticky or messy materials (e.g., glue, sand, mud)
• Constantly chewing on objects or clothing
• Seeking out movement (spinning, jumping) or avoiding it entirely

These behaviours aren’t about being difficult. They are your child’s way of trying to feel safe and in control of their sensory world.

The Impact on Your Child (and Your Family)

Sensory sensitivities can affect a child’s ability to participate in daily activities like eating, getting dressed, going to school, or socialising. For families, this can lead to stress, conflict, or feeling isolated.

That’s why understanding and addressing these sensitivities with compassion is so powerful. Small changes can help your child feel more comfortable, confident, and capable.

Practical Solutions for Common Sensory Challenges

Let’s break down some common sensory sensitivities and what you can do to help:

Sound Sensitivities

• Offer noise-cancelling headphones or ear defenders
• Create quiet, cozy corners at home
• Play soft background music during stressful tasks (like teeth brushing)
• Prepare your child for noisy environments using a visual or verbal warning
  
  

Touch Sensitivities

• Let your child choose clothing with soft, tag-free fabrics
• Use deep pressure strategies: firm hugs, weighted blankets, compression clothing
• Respect their boundaries around messy textures and offer alternatives (e.g., use a spoon for finger paints)
  
  

Smell Sensitivities

• Avoid strong perfumes, candles, or cleaning products
• Introduce new smells slowly and from a distance
• Offer calming, familiar scents your child enjoys (like vanilla or citrus)
  
  

Taste and Texture Aversions

• Don’t pressure your child to eat new foods; start with food play and exploration
• Serve preferred foods alongside new ones
• Offer a "no thank you" bowl for foods they don't want on their plate
• Respect their pace—tasting may come much later
  
  

Visual Sensitivities

• Use natural lighting when possible
• Reduce visual clutter in play and eating areas
• Offer sunglasses, hats, or dimmable lights for bright environments
  
  

Movement Needs (Seeking or Avoiding)

• Provide movement breaks (e.g., bouncing on a ball, swinging, jumping)
• Respect when your child needs stillness and offer calming activities (e.g., slow rocking, breathing games)
• Try proprioceptive input (heavy work activities) to help regulate the sensory system
  
  

Create a Sensory-Smart Home Environment

• Designate a quiet "sensory safe space" with soft lighting and comforting textures
• Use sensory tools like fidget toys, chewy necklaces, and weighted items
• Keep routines predictable but flexible to reduce sensory surprises
• Incorporate visual schedules or timers to help with transitions
  
  

When to Seek Additional Support

If your child’s sensory sensitivities are significantly interfering with daily routines or family life, it may be time to reach out.

Occupational therapists (OTs) can assess your child’s sensory needs and create a plan to support their development. An OT-led approach can help your child grow their tolerance, learn coping skills, and feel more confident in their body.

Want to get a clearer picture of your child’s sensory preferences? Our Personalised Sensory Processing Assessment can help you better understand your child’s unique needs and provide tailored strategies to support them.

Final Thoughts: You're Not Alone

Supporting a child with sensory sensitivities can feel like a puzzle, but you don’t have to solve it alone. With patience, compassion, and a few practical tools, you can help your child feel more at ease in their world.

You’re already doing an amazing job by seeking out information and support. Every small adjustment you make is a step toward a calmer, more connected daily life — for you and your child.