Home Explosions: Understanding Why Children Lose Control at Home and Offering Support Strategies
In the hustle and bustle of the school day, many children, especially those who are neurodivergent, may struggle with emotional and sensory exhaustion. This can lead to a "meltdown" or "sensory breakdown" after school. Here are some strategies that can help parents and educators support these children and prevent after-school meltdowns.
Educators can be proactive by setting up short movement breaks or sensory corners in the classroom. These breaks can provide students with the sensory input they need to stay focused and regulated throughout the day.
Creating a predictable after-school routine can also help kids decompress. A routine might include quiet time, a snack, deep pressure activities like a weighted blanket, or movement like swinging or jumping. Using visual supports like schedules or picture cards can help kids know what's next in the routine.
Parents can create a transition routine to help kids shift from school to home without becoming overwhelmed. This routine can involve a calming activity, such as deep breathing exercises or a sensory bin, to help the child refuel and prepare for the transition.
Normalizing big feelings and teaching self-regulation strategies can support emotional regulation at home after school. Strategies can include guided breathing techniques, mindfulness exercises, and yoga. Some children may benefit from heavy work (proprioceptive) activities like wall pushes or carrying a backpack.
Therapists can share supportive strategies and tools with families to help them carry over regulation strategies at home. These strategies can include sensory-friendly art and craft sessions, quiet nature walks, and special after-school activities designed for children with heightened sensory sensitivity.
Signs of emotional dysregulation in kids after school can include irritability, withdrawal, trouble transitioning, refusal to talk, or physical symptoms like headaches. If a child is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to give them space, avoid questions right away, and use consistent strategies that meet their unique sensory or emotional needs to help calm them.
The Sensory Lifestyle Handbook can guide in creating an active and thriving lifestyle based on a deep understanding of sensory processing. By implementing these strategies, we can help our children thrive and reduce the likelihood of after-school meltdowns.
Read also:
- Nightly sweat episodes linked to GERD: Crucial insights explained
- Antitussives: List of Examples, Functions, Adverse Reactions, and Additional Details
- Asthma Diagnosis: Exploring FeNO Tests and Related Treatments
- Unfortunate Financial Disarray for a Family from California After an Expensive Emergency Room Visit with Their Burned Infant
