5 Tips for Navigating Spring Sensory Triggers for Neurodivergent Kids ~ Inside Our Normal

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We love it when spring comes and the kids can be outside more. That is until we get “second winter” and they freak out that winter came back. The yo-yo of the weather is just one of the sensory triggers that comes with Spring for neurodivergent kids.

Let’s take a look at 5 sensory triggers that come with spring weather. As a neurodivergent family, we experience these challenges every year and I make an extra effort to prepare my kids and give them the language to share their discomfort and frustration when it happens. The unpredictable weather, wet clothes, loud fabrics, and severe weather anxiety are all challenges in the spring. We also have the opportunity to get outside more which can be good sensory regulation.

When we understand these sensory triggers and can anticipate our children’s challenges we can be better parents. We can provide more explanations and context to diffuse their anxiety and calm their dysregulated sensory systems.

Inconsistent Weather: Hot One Day, Cold the Next

One of the most notable features of the spring season is its fluctuating weather patterns. One day, the sun may shine brightly, inviting us to enjoy outdoor activities in t-shirts and shorts. The next day, however, chilly winds and rain can catch us off guard. For children with sensory sensitivities, these abrupt changes in temperature can be particularly challenging to understand and extra frustrating to regulate body temperature or know how to dress each day.

It can be helpful to discuss specific clothing recommendations the night before so they have an idea of how to dress the next day or even lay out their clothes with them Adding an extra layer to their On-the-Go Sensory Bag can be helpful too. After all indoor temperatures can fluctuate as well as the air-conditioning and heat changes in different places.

Rainy Days and Wet Shoes

Spring showers bring vibrant flowers, but they also bring wet shoes and clothes. Puddle jumping is fun until the water gets inside their shoes and they have wet socks for the rest of the day. One of my kids is magnetic to the puddles and doesn’t miss an opportunity to step in one. The other avoids them at all costs having learned they don’t like wet socks.

One thing we do to help with wet weather and make life less overwhelming is to invest in the right weather gear. Alfred Wainwright said, “There is no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing” We are intentional in purchasing the right gear for the weather in our location. Having raincoats and boots for our worst spring days means less complaining when we need to be out on those days.

Occasionally I will even catch them suiting up for a backyard romp when it is wet because they have the right gear to not be bothered by it. I also like to keep an extra towel and clothes in the car so I can say Yes to playing in the rain or water whenever possible.

Loud Jacket Fabrics that Crinkle

One of the best parts of spring is casting off our winter coats but that usually means trading them for a different coat instead of not coat at all. As I become more aware of my own sensory preferences

I notice how I tend to gravitate to specific fabrics for my clothing and coats. Some fabrics are very noisy and stiff which I don’t like. When I need to wear my coat in a group setting and then move around to fidget I worry how loud I am being because I can’t sit still, all because my coat fabric is loud.

Giving your child autonomy to choose their jackets and layers when you are shopping can make a huge difference in their willingness to be out in the wide variety of spring weather all season long.

Severe Weather Brings Anxiety

The quick changes in spring weather can also mean severe weather. Last year as we were driving around I was starting to prepare them for the severe weather possibilities of spring. I was explaining the fast-moving dark clouds we were seeing only to hear a tornado warning a few minutes later on the local radio.

Eventually, we heard where the tornado was spotted compared to our location and we were not in danger based on the direction of the wind. We talked through it all and I shared my thoughts out loud as we considered our options and risks. I like to give my kids knowledge to combat anxiety in this kind of situation, alongside lots of reassurance of course.

For many neurodiverse individuals, the anticipation of extreme weather can induce anxiety, irrespective of the actual threat level. It is crucial to acknowledge your child’s concerns and provide reassurance. That’s why I was thinking out loud as we navigated the tornado warning in the car.

At home, we talk about our safety plan together, including identifying our safe space for severe weather. We often talk about our local meteorologists and how we get their information to help us prepare for different weather emergencies. Knowledge is power when it comes to managing severe weather anxiety.

Spring Means MORE Opportunities to Get Outside

While there are new sensory challenges with spring, it is also a great time to use nature for sensory regulation. Getting out in nature is naturally calming. Running and hiking in the woods is a great habit to build for neurodivergent families. The abundance of natural stimuli, from the fresh scent of blooming flowers to the feel of grass underfoot, can have a calming and grounding effect.

Encouraging your child to spend time outdoors, engaging in activities that match their interests, allows them to connect with nature on their terms. Whether it’s going for a walk, observing wildlife, or playing in a sensory-friendly park, remember that nature can be a powerful tool for self-regulation and well-being.

At our house, we have some intentional naturescape elements in our backyard. They can use these days we can’t travel to the park or woods. We have large logs, a climbing dome, and a trampoline. All of these things allow them to be creative as they seek movement and regulation. For wet rainy days, we do have an indoor trampoline which gets plenty of use.

Be Prepared for Spring Sensory Challenges

The Spring season with its unpredictable weather, presents both challenges and opportunities for neurodivergent families and those with sensory challenges. By understanding the seasonal sensory experiences and embracing strategies to navigate these challenges, parents can help their children thrive during the spring, after all, warm weather and sunshine are on the way!