Sensitive skin is no joke, especially for kids and we surely know that very well. Refusing to wear certain clothes can be frustrating for parents and caregivers. However, you should understand your child might feel discomfort or even pain when they are refusing items of clothing that make them uncomfortable in some way - it's important not only to hear their opinions but also to find out how we may help alleviate these feelings so everyone involved feels better.
So, why do some children have clothing sensitivities?
A few reasons may contribute to your child’s clothing sensitivity. One possibility is that they may be experiencing tactile defensiveness. This means that they are oversensitive to touch and may feel pain or discomfort when something brushes up against their skin. Tactile defensiveness is a common symptom of many conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It can also be seen in children who are otherwise neurotypical.
What are the signs of clothing sensitivity?
Children who are sensitive to clothing may avoid certain fabrics or textures, or may only be comfortable wearing certain types of clothing. They may also exhibit signs of distress when clothing tags or seams are irritating.
If you think your child may be experiencing clothing sensitivities, you can do a few things to help.
Try to identify the specific fabrics or materials that seem to bother them the most. You can then avoid those materials when choosing clothes. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating clothing sensitivity. Many children are able to overcome their sensitivities with a combination of occupational therapy and gradual exposure to different fabrics and textures.
In some cases, compression clothing or other sensory-friendly clothing may be helpful. Compression clothing and sensory-friendly clothing can help reduce discomfort and provide much-needed relief for children with clothing sensitivities.
Here are our compression clothing product recommendations that could help improve the daily lives of individuals and families living with sensory conditions
- Compression clothing is a simple and effective way to provide the wearer with added comfort and security, whilst giving carers and family that added peace of mind.
- Calming Sensory sheets provide compression to help the overstimulated nervous system calm down ready for a good night's sleep.
- Sensory Singlets help regulate the body and filter sensory information, these garments give the wearer the best opportunity to remain focused and calm throughout their daily activities, and to sleep serenely through the night
- Calming Sensory Socks with a seamless feel are perfect for those who simply can't stand annoying seams
If your child is struggling with clothing sensitivities, don’t hesitate to reach out to their doctor or a mental health professional for help. With the right treatment, many children are able to overcome their sensitivities and enjoy a wider range of activities and experiences.
Be patient and understanding with your child. It may take some time for them to adjust to new sensory experiences. With a little trial and error, you should be able to find the calming sensory and compression clothing that works best for your child and helps them feel comfortable and happy.