The winter months can often be very difficult for sensory kiddos due to the increased amount of time spent indoors, and decreased amount of time outdoors.  Typically this is due to the shift of sensory input from an increase of visual and auditory input and a decrease of the essential and crucial types of sensory information….vestibular, proprioceptive, and tactile input.    Winter time often goes hand in hand with more sensory meltdowns, more sensory dysregulation, and more overall stress in the home.  There are many factors that come along with winter which contribute to this winter, sensory slippery slope....

• More time spent indoors, which usually means less vestibular, proprioceptive, and tactile input
• Less time outdoors where all of the sensory power sensations can be found.
• Less time spent out in the sunshine
• Shorter days with less daylight

Although it does take some work and effort, it is possible to get through the winter months without a sensory decline! Probably the very biggest key and factor is to limit screen time and replace it with sensory activities!  This includes, TV, computer, video games, and handheld devices...Your child should AT LEAST be getting the same amount or more of powerful sensory enriched activities, as they do screen time. Here are some ideas....

Shoveling, Digging a Snow Cave, & Sledding!

Excellent proprioception, great for all ages! Even 5 minutes of these activities can have an hour of benefit for the brain!  It gets your kiddo outside and will promote self-regulation and is calming for the nervous system.  

An Indoor Swing and additional Vestibular Input
This is crucial for sensory kiddos all year round...it will just likely get much more use in the winter.    Install from a single point suspension for various planes of movement. There are also tension rods that can be used in door frames if you are unable to drill into the ceiling.  If your child is small, swinging in a blanket with an adult holding the blanket at each end.  Vestibular input is essential.  Other options if a swing is not feasible: hippity hop ball, BOSU ball, therapy ball, indoor trampoline, scooter board, etc.