If you’ve been part of the Doodlebugs community for a while, you know we talk a lot about sensory-friendly living — from the fabrics we choose to the toys we stock to the reasons behind why we do what we do. But October is special.
It’s Sensory Processing Awareness Month — a time to share stories, spread understanding, and remind families like ours that you’re not alone on this journey.
🧩 What Is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is how our brains interpret and respond to information from the world around us — things like touch, sound, light, movement, taste, and smell.
For many kids (and adults), those signals come through just fine. But for others — including neurodivergent children or those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder (SPD) — the volume knob on the senses can be way too high or too low.
What feels “normal” to one child — like a tag on a shirt or the sound of a blender — can feel painful or overwhelming to another.
That’s where the idea for Doodlebugs truly began.
💛 Our Story: Born From Sensory Struggles
When my own kids were little, I quickly learned that not every fabric, toy, or environment worked for them.
My oldest refused to wear jeans or socks with seams. My middle child could hear a lawn mower two streets away and cover his ears in panic. My youngest would cry every night because her pajamas “itched” — even the ones labeled soft.
We spent years testing, adjusting, and trying everything — and through that, I discovered how powerful the right products can be.
A soft pair of bamboo pajamas turned bedtime from meltdowns into snuggles.
A weighted plush gave instant calm after a stressful day.
And a small switch — like removing tags or choosing quiet play options — could change everything.
That’s why Doodlebugs was built with one mission:
To help families like ours find products that make everyday life calmer, easier, and happier.
🌈 Tips for Creating a Sensory-Friendly Home
If you’re parenting a sensory-sensitive kiddo, here are a few gentle ideas that made a world of difference in our home:
1. Start With Comfort
Choose soft, breathable fabrics like bamboo viscose that don’t irritate skin or trap heat. Look for tagless designs, flat seams, and stretchy waistbands — small details that bring big relief.
2. Create a Calm Space
Designate a “quiet corner” in your home — maybe with a soft blanket, favorite stuffed friend, and a small bin of fidgets or sensory toys. This gives your child a safe place to decompress when things get overwhelming.
3. Watch for Sensory Clues
Notice patterns: do bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures cause stress? The more you observe, the easier it becomes to anticipate and support your child before overload hits.
4. Offer Choices
Empower your child to choose between two options — “Would you like your blue pajamas or your dinosaur ones tonight?” Giving them control in small ways builds confidence and reduces resistance.
5. Practice Patience and Celebrate Progress
Sensory needs can shift daily. Some days your child might love messy play — other days, even a tag feels unbearable. Meet them where they are and celebrate every small victory.
🛍️ How Doodlebugs Helps
Every product in our boutique is chosen with care and intention. From sensory-safe pajamas to calming plush toys, weighted friends, and soft bamboo blankets — we test, research, and curate each item with real families in mind.
Here are a few of our most-loved sensory-friendly favorites:
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Bamboo Pajamas — buttery-soft, tagless, and breathable for sensitive skin
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Weighted Plush & Warmies — for deep pressure comfort and calm
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Fidget-Friendly Toys — to help with focus and self-regulation
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Cozy Blankets & Quilts — perfect for winding down
Explore these and more at shopdoodlebugsboutique.com 💛
🤝 You’re Part of a Bigger Community
One of the most beautiful parts of Doodlebugs isn’t just the products — it’s the people. The parents who share stories, the caregivers who cheer each other on, and the moments of “me too” that remind us we’re not alone.
If you haven’t yet, join our VIP Facebook group for giveaways, sensory tips, and real-life conversations with families just like yours. It’s a safe, welcoming space to connect, laugh, and learn together.
👉 [Join Our VIP Group Here]
💚 Final Thoughts
Sensory Processing Awareness Month isn’t just about education — it’s about empathy. It’s about understanding that when a child screams because their shirt “hurts,” they’re not being dramatic — they’re communicating in the only way they can.
And it’s about remembering that small changes — a softer fabric, a quieter toy, a bit of grace — can change a whole day.
From our family to yours: thank you for helping us spread awareness, love, and understanding. 💚