Sensory sensitive children

[PeacefulSeams]

I think that my DS may have a sensory issue. He gets very upset by loud noises or new noises and covers his ears and cries. He's sensitive to smells and gets anxious in new settings. He does not adapt to change well at all.

I put a couple books on hold at the library but apparently there is a long wait.So in the meantime, I need some advice on what I can do to help him. He is 4.

[mamabohl]

maybe try the special needs forum? I have been reading Out of Sync Child, but I don't really have anything to tell you, sorry.

[Linda on the move]

My older DD has sensory issues. I suggest you buy The Out of Sync Child rather than getting it from the library. It has tons of ideas for things to do to help your child.

My older DD has sensory issues. Having lots of sensory input, but in mellow ways, helps her. Swimming, gynastics, playing on a play ground, jumping on a trampoline, etc. help her. I know some of these things are harder to do in the winter than the summer, but if you have an indoor pool near your or can sign him up for a mellow class it might help. A mini trampoline or ball pit for you home might be great for him.

Playing in a bowl of cornmeal, finger painting, playing with whipped cream, etc are good too, but the whole body things help her more than just hand things.

[Magella]

My dd is sensitive to noises, and uses headphones that diminish noise (we have these: http://www.envirosafetyproducts.com/...-Earmuffs.html).

To help her with change, we talk about the transition or change ahead of time to prepare her--when it will happen, what the place/activity will be like, what we'll be doing. I've always tried to plan in advance ways of helping her cope with transition or change. So for going to a new environment, we'll talk a lot about what it will be like and how she can cope (stay close to me, go for a walk if it gets too loud or she feels overwhelmed, deep breaths, etc.) plus I'll bring whatever I think might help (like headphones, extra socks or clothes, etc.).

I really like the book The Sensory Sensitive Child. I also like Freeing Your Child From Anxiety (because anxiety does often result from sensory issues, so it's good to learn about helping a child handle anxiety).