Tracy Richards, MS

by Tracy Richards
(Rutland, VT)

Children with sensory issues need limits and boundaries even more than children without such issues. When a child knows what the expectations are they feel safe and secure. I recommend setting up specific routines, to include bedtimes,mealtimes and schedules for event.

Social stories also help when going to knew places, because they help a child to understand behavioral and social expectations. Walk a child through how they feel and what they are experiencing when they are upset, after the even, so they begin to connect with what the cause is of the behavior, effect on others and so that you can develop alternative ways for them to express their frustration. Children who feel out of control will work to regain control anyway they can and because of a lack of skills do not always do it in productive ways. Some in attempt to gain control bully others, they exhibit symptoms of Obsesssive Compulsive Disorder in an attempt to feel in control. The answer is to make them feel more secure and to comfortable with adults being in control.

In order to do this Adult need to be consistent, make consequences logical and age appropriate, and meet their sensory needs. Help your child to understand their emotions and what their sensory issues are. Work together to find ideas that work for them. Stop tantrums before they start by keeping a log of how they start, what triggers are and work to stop them before they get out of control. We all do best when we know what is expected of us and feel supported, don't use blame and shame.

Just support, help the child but remain firm and committed. Tracy Richards, MS

Therapist in private practice working with children with a wide range of issues.