Holiday Sensory Overload continued...
4TASTE My kids HATE new and unfamiliar foods even those associated with tradition. Technically, they pretty much hate all foods that aren’t Peanut Butter or Pizza. Many children with sensory issues also have food allergies or other sensitivities to things such as peanuts, eggs, gluten, or additives. These dietary restrictions are important to
their health and happiness. If a child with sensory issues refuses to try new foods, or can’t eat something you’ve made, remember that it isn’t a personal insult to your obviously
spectacular culinary skills, but simply one more challenge that they are too overwhelmed to
take on. If it makes you feel better to know you’re not alone, you can bet my children will be my children will be eating PB sandwiches – on white bread with the crusts cut off – for every holiday dinner this year. As usual.
5SMELL My youngest son is especially sensitive to smells – he is unable to even sit in the same room when the
scent of certain foods offends him. This isn’t him being rude (although we are working on him expressing this without pinching his nose and storming out yelling ‘THAT STINKS!’), but
rather self-advocating and creating the boundaries he needs to stay regulated. You can help kids with sensory issues by minimizing the smells in your home. Avoiding scented candles, wearing heavy perfumes or strong deodorants, is a great start, but also respect their need to avoid certain smells while still including them. And you’re in good company with this one too, as my youngest will be eating that aforementioned PB sandwich, in the family room.
As usual.
"Takeing time to remind myself of the basics...[and]