Triggers for Sensory Overload in Children

Physical Triggers

• Sensory overload triggers are different for each person. Some children are highly sensitive to sound. Of those, some are bothered by high-pitched or shrill noises, others by loud volume. Some cannot stand to be touched, while others find comfort in close physical contact. Some are bothered by scratchy clothing, some by buttons or zippers and still others by tight-fitting garments. Some kids cannot tolerate certain food textures. In addition, some children have difficulty with balance and moving their bodies around within their physical space. Movements such as climbing stairs or going down a slide could be overwhelming for children with movement difficulties. If you suspect sensory overload, pay close attention to your child̵7;s immediate physical surroundings when he has a meltdown.

Emotional Triggers

• Sensory overload is sometimes triggered by the child̵7;s emotional responses to incoming stimuli. If the child feels threatened, scared or overwhelmed, she is already primed for a fight-or-flight response. According to Parents.com, social situations are especially challenging for many children with sensory processing disorder, especially if the SPD is caused by an underlying condition such as an autism spectrum disorder. Many kids with sensory processing disorder have trouble understanding others̵7; emotions, communicating effectively and managing interpersonal relationships. Consequently, socializing feels scary and unpredictable. Against this backdrop, even relatively minor stimuli could be enough to trigger sensory overload.

Effects of Sensory Overload

• In children, sensory overload generally leads to a meltdown. The Montessori Family Connection notes that meltdowns differ from temper tantrums in that they are unintentional. When your child has a meltdown, she does not feel safe. Focus on calming and relaxing her rather than responding to her screams and shouts. By contrast, a temper tantrum is a learned manipulative behavior designed to wear you down. With a bit of practice, you will be able to distinguish meltdowns from tantrums. According to MyAspergerChild.com, some children also experience shutdowns, in which they attempt to block out the world until they regain a feeling of peace and tranquility. Speaking calmly and soothingly can help a child in shutdown, but avoid touching her or forcing her to talk.

Managing Triggers

• Because both meltdowns and shutdowns are socially unacceptable, children with sensory issues often experience social isolation, difficulty maintaining peer relationships and even bullying. Help your child learn more acceptable coping skills by setting him up for success. North Texas Kids suggests that when you know a triggering situation looms, such as a social gathering, let your child pack a few items in a relaxation bag. An iPod, a Rubik̵7;s Cube, a worry stone or even a camera gives the child something to focus on when he starts feeling stressed. Ask him to make a list of things he wants to accomplish at the gathering. Give him at least an hour of transition time before you leave the house. Help him identify potential triggers and brainstorm ways of successfully coping. When you arrive at an event, help him scope out a quiet, safe space and give him permission to retreat there when needed.