Winter can be a tricky season for kiddos with sensory sensitivities. Staying warm with cold temperatures, scratchy fabrics, and bulky clothes can feel like an unbearable battle. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Just a few simple adjustments can really help your child stay cozy and comfortable!
1. Soft and Cozy Fabrics Are Key 🧣
Not all winter clothes are created equal! Especially when it comes to sensory needs. Stick to soft fabrics like fleece, cotton, jersey, and bamboo. Look for seamless garments that are free of scratchy tags. Steer clear of wool or other itchy materials unless they’re lined with something smooth.
Why It Helps: Scratchy or rough fabrics can feel unbearable for kids with sensory sensitivities. Soft, breathable materials make wearing layers more tolerable and help avoid unnecessary discomfort.
Check out Sense-ational You for sensory-friendly clothing that are soft and free of irritants!.
2. Layer Light, Not Bulky 🧥
Instead of forcing your child into one big, heavy coat, try dressing them in thin, lightweight layers that encourage movement. A comfy base layer like our sensory friendly joggers can help trap warmth without feeling restrictive. A soft fleece under a down jacket can also help keep the chill out.
Why It Helps: Layers let you adjust to changing temperatures more easily and assist you to avoid the heavy, restrictive feeling that some children dislike.
3. Sensory-Friendly Winter Accessories 🧤
Finding the right hat, gloves, or scarf can be a game-changer. Try finding sensory gloves, fleece-lined hats, and neck gaiters instead of traditional scarves! It can really feel like night and day!
Why It Helps: Many kids with sensory difficulties may struggle with tight or scratchy accessories. Replacing them with soft and easy to wear garments can make winter dressing a little less stressful!
4. Warm Clothes Before Dressing 🌡️
No one likes the shock of putting on cold clothes, especially not children who are already sensitive! Warm up your child’s coat, gloves, and socks by tossing them in the dryer for a few minutes or placing them near a heater.
Why It Helps: Starting with warm clothes can make dressing for the cold feel less overwhelming and more comforting.
5. Keep Feet Toasty 🧦
Cold feet can ruin any outing. Look for seamless and moisture-wicking socks to help keep toes dry and warm. For boots, pick options that are insulated and easy to slip on, avoiding stiff or overly tight styles. Make sure to look for lightweight boot options for sensory comfort and the ability to move freely!
Why It Helps: Sensory sensitivities often extend to the feet, so making sure your child’s socks and boots are just right can prevent discomfort and tantrums.
6. Try Weighted Winter Gear ⚖️
If your child is a sensory seeker and finds deep-pressure input calming, consider a weighted scarf for added warmth. These items can provide comfort and security while keeping your kiddo cozy. Or add a compression shirt as a base layer for a similar input!
Why It Helps: Weighted items offer calming sensory input while doubling as functional winter gear, making them a win-win for kids who benefit from pressure.
7. Stick to a Routine 🕒
Winter clothing can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s the first few times wearing them this season. Practice putting on winter layers indoors, keeping the process consistent each time you dress your child for cold weather.
Why It Helps: Routines create a sense of predictability which can help your child feel more in control and less anxious about wearing winter gear.
8. Use Social Stories or Visuals 📖
Help your child prepare for winter dressing by using a social story or visual chart. Walk them through what to expect step by step and highlight how warm and comfortable they’ll feel once they’re dressed.
Why It Helps: Visual aids help children process and prepare for sensory experiences. This can help reduce their resistance, build cooperation, and even make the process exciting.
9. Let Them Take the Lead 🎨
Let your child help choose their winter clothes and accessories by offering them a few options and letting them decide what feels best.
Why It Helps: Giving your child some control over the process can make them more willing to cooperate and feel empowered during winter dressing.
10. Make Warm-Up Zones ☕
Finally, create a cozy corner at home where your child can undress and warm up after being outside. Add soft blankets, sensory toys, or even a warm drink to help them transition comfortably.
Why It Helps: A designated warm-up space provides a sensory-friendly environment to recover from the cold (and all the clothes that came with it!) and regulate their emotions.
Helping your child stay warm doesn’t have to be a struggle! Focusing on comfort, routine, and their unique sensory needs can make winter dressing a smoother and more positive experience for everyone. Try these adaptable tips and check out our resource blog for more!
Want to learn more about the science? Check out our science source 🔎