Since summer activities can create changes in the daily routine which is a classic trigger for a meltdown in children with SID parents need to do some extra planning to anticipate their child's needs.
Because SID is different for each child, there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution. But there are a few things you can keep in mind that might make your summer adventure a little more enjoyable for you and your child.
Give your child a heavy backpack to carry: The sensory input of carrying something heavy can help a child with SID calm their over-stimulated bodies. Depending on the age of your child, determine how heavy their pack should be and fill it with towels, clothes and other items unlikely to break if they drop it. And if you present it right, your child will enjoy being mom's helper for the day.
Give bear hugs or back rubs periodically: While out and about, make a point to give your child a few big bear hugs. Squeezing a child with SID tightly can help calm and relax their body. But be sure to tell them it's only a game for mom and dad, not one to play with other kids (you don't want them hugging other kids too hard). A back rub while sitting on a towel can also work just as well. It's the deep pressure that some SID bodies need.
Keep bubbles on hand: This is a fun activity for the beach or park anyway but for a child with SID, blowing bubbles can be a good re-focusing activity.
Play with sand before you go to the beach: For kids with tactile defensiveness, the beach can be a nightmare. Introducing the sensation of sand on skin on both their hands and feet before you take your trip will help you understand what to expect from your child and make a plan to deal with it before you get there. Even if your child has been to the beach and hated the sand, a gradual re-introduction in a small box (hide small toys in it for added incentive) can help de-sensitize your child's reaction to it at home. And if that doesn't work, have them wear a pair of rain boots so they don't have to put their feet in it at all.
Pack extra baby wipes: Even if your child has outgrown diapers, bring along some extra hand wipes. Some children with SID don't like to have dirty, sticky hands and after eating ice cream or other messy snacks, it's helpful to have an extra stash of wipes for clean-up.
Bring baby powder: Being covered in wet sand can be stressful for some kids with SID. The easiest way to 'dry' them off is to generously sprinkle baby powder on their sandy skin and then rub it off. This takes away the wetness as well as the sand (and works especially well between toes and fingers). But be sure to reapply sunscreen if you're planning to continue your outdoor activities.
Introduce sun block/bug spray smells: For a child sensitive to smell, be sure to introduce them to the scent of your current sun block or bug spray before you go out. Going on a day-long trip is not a good time to introduce a new smell.
Pack chewy snacks: Bring a couple of chewy snacks like gum, raisins, licorice, taffy or a bagel for your child to eat throughout the day. Chewing is an important calming sensation for some SID kids.
Bring an extra set of clothes, including footwear: Having at least one change of clothes in tow is a must for a child with tactile defensiveness. Being able to change into clean, soft familiar clothes and dry footwear after a day at the beach will make the ride home a much more pleasant experience for everyone.
Pack a water bottle with pop-up spout: For a child too old for a sippy cup, water bottles with a pop-up spouts are great. The sucking sensation can be calming, especially after a meltdown.
Not all of these tips will work for all SID issues, so choose what you think your child would respond positively to and try it. With a little planning to anticipate situations that trigger meltdowns, you might be able to avoid some of the reactions moms of children with SID know all too well.
If you have a child with SID and are looking for more advice and support from other moms, go www.raisingmaine.com/SID.
Originally published in Raising Maine Magazine, June 2008
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