Abbey Wash, MOT, OTR/L, occupational therapist at the Midtown office of Child and Family Development, found a great resource from the Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Foundation (www.spdfoundation.net) to help manage difficulties during Easter.
They suggest:
- Changes in routine can cause stress. When there is a holiday and the normal daily routine is different, kids with SPD can have a difficult time.
- If you are attending church services, consider noise canceling headphones and a sensory backpack containing items most beneficial for your child’s needs. It could be items that are soft and squishy or smooth or familiar.
- If going to a family event, let the child know ahead of time, bring a sensory backpack, and even look at pictures of who may be there.
- Set specific limits with games in open spaces like Easter egg hunts or let the child opt out.
- Choose comfortable clothing.
Read more about how occupational therapy helps kids with sensory processing difficulties here.