How Occupational Therapy Can Help Children Navigate Holiday Sensory Overload

Written by Allie Muzzio, MOT, OTR/L

Introduction

The holiday season brings joy and excitement, but for some children, it can also be overwhelming. The bright lights, loud noises, and holiday food, combined with the hustle and bustle of gatherings, can lead to sensory overload – particularly for children with sensory processing difficulties. This is where Occupational Therapy (OT) can step in to help. Occupational therapists can guide parents and caregivers in understanding their child’s sensory needs and provide strategies to support them to navigate this time of year more smoothly. 

Understanding Sensory Overload in Children

Sensory overload occurs when a child’s brain has difficulty processing and responding to sensory stimuli. This occurs when a child is bombarded with too much sensory input at once, leading to feelings of distress, anxiety, and discomfort. Sensory overload in children manifests through various signs such as increased irritability, withdrawal, meltdowns, or a refusal to engage in activities. The holiday season, with its bright lights, loud noises, and constant social interactions, can heighten these challenges. Recognizing the early signs of sensory overload is key to helping your child navigate these challenges with the right support.

How Occupational Therapy Addresses Sensory Overload

Occupational therapists (OTs) are skilled professionals trained to assess, understand, and help children manage sensory processing challenges. OTs begin by assessing your child’s unique sensory processing challenges and then implement tailored strategies through a sensory integration approach to help manage overwhelming sensory stimuli. Techniques and strategies that OTs may provide you and your child include sensory breaks, where children take time away from overstimulating environments to recharge and regulate, as well as the use of sensory tools like fidget toys, weighted blankets, or noise-canceling headphones to help them stay calm and focused – especially during the sensory-rich holiday season.

Creating Sensory-Friendly Holiday Environments

One of the most effective ways to support your child during the holidays is by creating a sensory-friendly environment, and Occupational Therapists (OTs) can guide families in making these adjustments. OTs offer customized advice on adapting both home and social event environments to reduce stress and sensory overload, helping create a more enjoyable holiday experience for everyone.

Here are a few strategies on how you can make your spaces sensory-friendly:

• Adjust lighting: Use soft, dimmable lights or limit time in areas with bright holiday displays.
• Control noise levels: Consider noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to minimize the impact of loud gatherings and music.
• Create sensory-friendly zones: Set up a quiet space where your child can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.
• Modify activities: Provide alternative holiday activities like crafts or quiet reading that allow your child to feel included without overstimulation.

With these adjustments, families can create a more comfortable holiday experience, making celebrations less overwhelming and more enjoyable for children with sensory needs.

Practical Tips for Parents During the Holidays

Incorporating simple sensory tools and strategies can make a big difference in how your child experiences the holiday season. Here are some tips to keep your child comfortable and supported:

• Maintain routines: Stick to a familiar routine as much as possible, as predictability helps reduce anxiety.
• Sensory tools: Equip your child with fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, or sunglasses to help them manage sensory input.
• Allow for downtime: Schedule breaks or quiet time during holiday events to help your child recharge.
• Prepare your child: Talk to your child about what to expect at holiday gatherings and rehearse strategies for managing overwhelm.

Conclusion

Occupational Therapy empowers children with sensory processing challenges and their families  to enjoy the holidays without feeling overwhelmed. By understanding your child’s sensory needs and implementing sensory-friendly strategies, families can embrace the season’s joy with less stress. Occupational therapists offer valuable tools and insights, helping you create supportive environments and empowering your child to manage sensory input during holiday festivities. If you feel your child could benefit from additional support, consider consulting an OT for tailored, long-term solutions. With the right guidance, your child – and your family – can thrive throughout the holiday season and beyond.