Fashion and trying new things are always a possibility, but a child who demands tutus on a daily basis and suddenly refuses them may mean there is something more.
The other day we had dinner at a place that was too overwhelming. At the time it seemed that E and V were handling it okay; we had their comfort kits and, as always, sat in an area off to the side (a trick of mine to help control the environment around me), and made sure to step away to the restroom when needed.
But the next day it was clear they needed to process and that they were dysregulated. My little sensory seekers were avoiding or seeking sensory in many different ways. One refused clothing. One required wearing clothing in a way that provided pressure to certain areas.
Just as any other change in behaviour is an underline sign of something more, so is this.
There are two reasons clothing may be avoided altogether:
-One is to control their situation through what is on their body.
-The other is sensory overload.
For E and V I knew it was the second, overload. I was sure of this when other signs arose. Their beloved play dough was avoided and even swimming was turned down.
So what do we do?
-If able I just wait it out and ensure they are in a safe and appropriate place to be au naturel or worn in a particular way that is needed.
-If avoiding, offer loose options, even going sans underpants.
-If seeking pressure, notice areas and offer appropriate options. Offer weighted blankets, lap pads, etc, and other forms of compression, using pillows or between cushions.
-We take it easy. We try to remain at their home base and keep their routine as basic as possible.
Is this something you’ve noticed either in your child or yourself?
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