In a child’s first five years, their brain is growing faster than ever. Every sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste they experience helps their brain make important connections. However, when there are too many experiences happening at once, they can become overwhelmed and overstimulated. But how much is too much, and what does this look like? Read on to learn how to recognize the signs of overstimulation and help your child find their calm in a busy world.
Recognizing and understanding overstimulation, also known as sensory overload, in children is super important as a parent or caregiver, in case you need to step in and help. This can support your child’s emotional well-being and development, prevent potential meltdowns, and promote a nurturing space where your child can thrive emotionally and physically.
Overstimulation can look different in babies than it does in young children. Here are some signs to watch for:
Act fussy or seem very tired
Turn their heads away or look upset
Move their arms and legs in a jerky way
Clench their fists, wave their arms, or kick
Cry more than usual, especially if they've been overstimulated for a while
Seem tired or grumpy, or have tantrums
Cry and can't explain what's wrong
Throw themselves on the floor in tears or anger
Say they don't want to continue an activity they normally enjoy
Refuse simple tasks, like putting on a seatbelt
Act irritable or tired
Are clumsier than usual, like dropping or spilling things
Become more clingy or need extra attention
Get bored easily
Complain about their food
Ask for more help than usual
Remember, each child is different. Recognizing these signs can help you understand your child’s own signs of overstimulation and when they might need a break or a calmer environment.
If your child is overstimulated, try taking them to a quiet place where they can relax. Doing calming activities like deep breathing, reading, or listening to soft music can help. Look around your environment for things within your control that might be causing sensory overload. For example, if the TV volume is loud, lower the volume or turn it off completely. Giving them a big hug or letting them hold a favorite toy can also make them feel better. Sometimes, simply sitting quietly with them can help them feel calmer.
For babies, speak to them gently and with reassurance. If you’re out and about, finding a quiet place with dimmer lighting can help. If they’re in their stroller, covering it with a light blanket can also help calm them down. Don’t forget airflow!
For toddlers and preschoolers, being a good example in displaying calmness can help your child calm down too.
For kindergarteners, continue to lead by example. Putting feelings into words can help you and them understand why they feel overwhelmed. Wait until they feel better before talking about what happened and what could be done differently next time. Moving them to a quieter environment with softer lighting, like their bedroom, and reading a book or listening to gentle music can help too if they are acting grumpy or sleepy. And you can also try some mindfulness activities with your child, like deep breathing or simple stretches.
To prevent overstimulation, try to limit your child's time in noisy or crowded places. Keeping a daily routine with calming activities or quiet time can provide comfort and predictability to help them manage sensory input. It's also helpful to limit screen time and take breaks during long activities. Depending on your child’s age, you may be able to talk with them about what they need before going places or participating in activities that could overstimulate them.
If they often feel overstimulated, consider using tools like noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or weighted blankets. Remember, staying calm yourself can show your child how to manage big feelings.
There are many ways to support your little one through overstimulation, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Explore different methods and see what works best for both of you, ensuring they feel safe, loved, and understood in every moment.
