Meltdown 2.0 From Sensory Stress

Well, we’re two months into Zoom school and kids are definitely feeling the stress! Lots of screen time, lots of sitting still and listening during classroom meetings. Plus dealing with all of the auditory interruptions during class when kids make noises or simply comment in the middle of it all. I am sure that all of our littles are starting to feel the stress!

Kids who have sensory challenges probably feel it the most!

Enter meltdown mode!!

It’s pretty natural for a  2-year-old or even a 5-year-old to have a major meltdown. Tantrums can range from just a quick 1-2 minute endeavor to full-blown tantrums.  Tantrums can be a result of any variety of issues…tired, hungry, sleepy, bored, etc.  Above I added a link to a great article from the New York Times that talks about the science behind a tantrum.  

However what about when the tantrum is not a result of the typical tantrum issues.  Maybe you’ve tried all of these suggestions and your child is still constantly having meltdowns.   Often times, a child who has difficulty with processing sensory input may have meltdowns that can last over an hour and this can be very stressful for the whole family.  I have worked with children who are up to 15 years old and are still having temper tantrums because they have under lying sensory issues that were never addressed or even only briefly addressed.  

Getting to the underlying sensory difficulties is essential to dealing with meltdowns

Sensory strategies help children learn to deal with frustration, manage their sensory differences, and help parents and caregivers support their children in these endeavors.

One technique that is helpful is deep pressure touch to the whole body. Having the child lay down on the floor and pressing their body gently with a pillow can be soothing and calming to their nervous system.   Some kids love a “squish box” – a place that is small and comfy and provides them with a hug…without being touched by a person.

Sometimes, children require a more intensive program to help their nervous system relax and calm.

The buildup of stress hormones in their body leads to excessive meltdowns occurring over and over again.  A pediatric occupational therapist with extensive training in sensory processing can help.  If you have questions or concerns please reach out.