How to Support Your Child’s Sensory Needs in Daily Routines

Introduction: You’re Not Alone

Ever feel like brushing teeth or getting dressed turns into an unexpected battle? You’re not the only one. Many parents find that everyday routines can be tricky, especially for kids with sensory processing differences.

Children with sensory needs often experience the world more intensely. Whether it's the feel of socks, the sound of the blender, or the brightness of the morning sun. But the good news is, with a few simple adjustments, you can help make daily life more manageable (and more fun!) for your child.

Not sure what your child’s specific sensory preferences are? Our Personalised Sensory Processing Assessment is a great place to start. It gives you a clear picture of what your child seeks or avoids, and how to support them with confidence.

 

Understanding Sensory Processing and Daily Routines

Sensory processing is the way our brain receives and responds to information from our senses. For some children, sensory input can feel overwhelming or, on the flip side, not strong enough—leading them to seek more.

Daily routines like getting dressed, going to school, or eating meals involve a lot of sensory input. That’s why these seemingly simple tasks can be challenging for some children.

The key is to weave sensory supports into everyday life.

 

Sensory-Friendly Tips for Everyday Routines

Let’s break down the day with practical ideas you can try at home.

Morning Routine

• Start slow: Use soft lighting or calming music to gently ease into the day.
  
• Try a visual schedule so your child knows what to expect.
  
• Use a weighted blanket or give deep pressure hugs to help them feel grounded before getting up.
  
  

Getting Dressed

• Choose soft, seamless, tag-free clothing.
  
• Let your child choose between two sensory-friendly outfit options.
  
• If they dislike certain textures, allow alternatives—leggings instead of jeans, or cotton tees instead of wool.
  
  

Mealtime

• Minimise distractions and loud sounds.
  
• Offer a variety of textures but never force them to try—exploration over pressure.
  
• Try a bit of oral motor play before meals (chewing gum, blowing bubbles) to prepare their mouth for different food sensations.
  
  

School Prep & Transitions

• Build in a movement break before heading out (jumping jacks, animal walks).
  
• Add comfort items to their bag—like a small fidget or noise-canceling headphones.
  
• Use calming strategies if the day’s routine will change: social stories, countdowns, or a simple heads-up can work wonders.
  
  

After-School Wind Down

• Let them decompress: sensory play, quiet time in a calm corner, or heavy work like carrying groceries.
  
• Respect their need for space or silence before diving into homework or chores.
  
  

Bath Time

• Let them test and control the water temperature.
  
• Use soft washcloths and gentle water sprayers.
  
• Turn on calming music or offer bath toys for comfort.
  
  

Bedtime Routine

• Stick to a consistent, predictable order of events.
  
• Use tools like white noise machines, dim lights, and visual bedtime charts.
  
• Try a sensory-friendly wind-down: massage, deep pressure squeezes, or calming lavender lotion.
  
  

General Tips to Keep in Mind

• Be patient. If something doesn’t work today, try again another time.
  
• Offer choices. Empowering kids helps reduce resistance.
  
• Involve your child. Let them help plan their routines or pick sensory tools they love.
  
  

Supporting your child’s sensory needs doesn’t mean changing everything, just finding what works for them.

 

Looking for More?

We recently shared a blog on Creating a Sensory-Friendly Home Environment, which dives deeper into setting up calming spaces for your child.

Every child is different, and you’re already doing a great job by learning what works best for yours. Keep experimenting, stay flexible, and celebrate the small wins along the way.

Got a tip that works in your home? We’d love to hear it! Drop a comment or connect with us on social media. 

You’ve got this!