Post-Holiday Sensory Overload: How to Help Your Child Recalibrate
The holidays are full of excitement — bright lights, loud noises, and sugary treats — a recipe for sensory overload in children, especially those with developmental challenges. As the season winds down, parents often find their kids struggling to adjust. In this blog, we’ll share actionable tips to help your child recalibrate and regain their sense of balance.
1. Understand the Signs of Sensory Overload
Children may show sensory overload in various ways, including:
Meltdowns or tantrums
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Clinginess or avoiding activities they usually enjoy
Recognizing these signs is the first step to helping your child feel safe and supported.
2. Create a Calming Environment
Transition your home to a quieter, more soothing space by:
Dimming the lights
Playing soft, calming music
Offering sensory-friendly items like weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, or fidget toys
3. Reinstate Predictable Routines
Holidays often disrupt daily routines, which can feel unsettling for kids. Gradually reintroduce structure by:
Starting with consistent meal and bedtime routines
Using visual schedules or daily charts to help your child understand what’s coming next
4. Provide Sensory Breaks
Incorporate sensory-friendly activities to help your child self-regulate:
Deep-pressure activities: Bear hugs or squeezing a therapy ball.
Movement breaks: Jumping on a trampoline, swinging, or dancing.
Quiet play: Sensory bins, calming jars, or soft clay.
These breaks help your child release energy and regain focus.
5. Limit Sugar and Screen Time
Holiday indulgences can exacerbate sensory challenges. Gradually reduce these influences:
Offer healthy snacks, like fresh fruits, nuts, or whole-grain crackers.
Set clear limits on screen time and encourage active play or quiet family time instead.
6. Practice Co-Regulation
Children often mirror their caregiver’s emotions. If you stay calm, it’s easier for them to do the same.
Take deep breaths: Demonstrate relaxation techniques during stressful moments.
Speak soothingly: A calm tone can reassure your child and reduce tension.
7. Seek Professional Support if Needed
If sensory challenges persist, consider reaching out to a professional. At Brave Wings Therapy, we specialize in:
Sensory integration therapy
Co-regulation strategies for parents and children
Personalized developmental support
Helping your child recalibrate after the holidays can set the tone for a peaceful start to the year. By creating a calming environment, re-establishing routines, and offering sensory support, you can make this transition smoother for your whole family.
Brave Wings Therapy Is Here for You
At Brave Wings Therapy, we specialize in creating customized therapy plans for every child, whether they need help with sensory processing, fine motor skills, or speech therapy goals. Our inclusive, accessible spaces and expert therapists make it easy for families to feel supported during the holidays and beyond.
If you’re looking for resources or therapy services, get in touch.
