Many of us look forward to summertime as an opportunity for lots of fun outdoor play. Exercise, social interaction, and family time are so important for childhood development, and every family should take advantage of summer vacation to its fullest. However, summer weather can also present challenges for those with sensory sensitivities.
In this post, we cover ways to manage summer sensory sensitivities, and we also share some great places to go on adventures with sensory-sensitive children. So grab your sunscreen and sunglasses, and let’s go!
Sensory Sensitivity Tips for Summer
Summertime heat, sweating, and sunscreen application are core issues for those with sensory sensitivities. The tips below will help you navigate the summer season.
Sunscreen Application Tips for Sensory Sensitivity
- Experiment with different sunscreen types. Lotion may not work for your child, so experiment with sunscreen sticks and sprays to find what works best.
- Let your child help apply sunscreen. For kids who are sensitive to touch, applying sunscreen themselves will help the experience be more comfortable.
Tips for Combating Sensory Issues on a Hot Day
Many of us struggle through hot, sweltering days. Luckily, there are several ways to make a hot day more comfortable for your sensory-sensitive child–and you!
- Try cooling towels on a hot day to help calm the heat sensation. Cold, damp towels can be placed around the neck while you are out and about.
- Opt for breathable, light, loose-fitting clothes.
- If the feeling of sun on the skin is unbearable to your child, outfit him with good-quality sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat made with soft material, and a loose-fitting long-sleeve shirt made with light and breathable material.
- If hot weather is particularly difficult for your child, confine outdoor play to early mornings and evenings.
Air Conditioning and Sensory Sensitivity
For children who are sensitive to being touched delicately, fans and air conditioning may be difficult to bear. Plan to dress your child in a lightweight long-sleeve shirt and pants to help address this issue.
Sensory-Friendly Summer Outings
Have a Beach Day
From the grit of the sand between your toes to the salty spray of the sea, heading to the beach is like going to the world’s largest sensory bin! There are plenty of ways to entertain children including swimming, boogie boarding, playing catch, and building sandcastles. For sensory sensitive children, taking along a few extra supplies to the beach can help improve their experience in the sun and the sand.
Bring a tent or umbrella to help block the sun and provide a safe space for your children to take breaks and self-regulate.- A rash guard and bathing suit combo is a great way to keep sand from irritating sensitive skin.
- Bring multiple beach blankets for your children to use throughout the day.
- Sun and heat protection are musts, and you should always bring water, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Go on a Walk Through the Woods
Going out and taking in the sight, smells, and sounds of the wild can be a great learning experience for your children. In the Garden State, there are plenty of nature reserves and parks close by to explore! While an all-day hike might be too much for young children, taking a walk on a trail for a few hours allows kids to take in nature at their own pace.
Aside from the usual sturdy shoes, sunglasses, water, and snacks, there are a couple more items and situations you should plan for before heading into the wild with your sensory sensitive children.
- Bring bug spray, but consider using an herbal insect repellent if your children are sensitive to certain smells.
- Have a photo of your children with you on your phone to help identify them if they become lost.
- Avoid large bodies of water like deep lakes or fast-moving rivers as children with sensory sensitivity may be drawn to running water and accidentally fall in.
Head to the Playground
Spending some time at the playground is a great way to let your child socialize and exercise. Playground equipment can offer a variety of visual and physical stimuli that can help relieve stress and provide children with the opportunity to meet and play with their peers. To help keep sensory sensitive kids comfortable and safe, there are a couple of things you need to make sure you’ve selected a good playground for them.
The playground should feature an enclosed fence so there’s only one way in or out, preventing children from wandering. A closed gate with seating nearby is preferable.- Find equipment with cozy spaces so your children can have somewhere to relax and self-regulate.
- Pick a playground that encourages lots of movement. Look for equipment that lets kids swing, spin, rock, sway, or jump.
- Choose a playground that includes nature or has muted colors. A more serene atmosphere can help calm sensory sensitive children
We understand that summer is a busy time, and parents often have to keep working while the kids are on vacation.
To offer parents fun and educational options to keep their children busy (regardless of the season!), our Manalapan, Edison, and Brick Sunshine Centers offer year-round Little Rays Preschool and Kindergarten prep. Our summer sessions include water play! Learn more and sign up today.