As a mom of three amazing children with special sensory needs, I've learned that parenting in our house doesn't always look the way it does for other families. And that’s okay! In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s necessary. For us, a big part of the parenting journey has been understanding the importance of meeting our kids where they are, emotionally, mentally, and physically.
Parenting any child is filled with unique challenges, but sensory needs add another layer. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a parent when your child is overstimulated or shuts down due to something as seemingly small as the hum of a refrigerator or the texture of their clothing. But the key I've discovered is to slow down, really observe my kids, and respond to what they need in that moment.
Real-Life Examples of Meeting My Kids Where They Are:
The Mornings That Don’t Go as Planned
Mornings in our home are rarely predictable. Sometimes, getting dressed can be an hour-long process because my daughter can’t stand the feel of certain fabrics. She wants to wear soft, tagless clothing, and we've learned to accommodate that. On other days, it’s the noise of the kitchen blender that sets off a meltdown. The solution? I blend things after she leaves for school, minimizing noise when she’s around. These accommodations may seem small, but they make a world of difference.
School Transitions and Anxiety
School drop-offs used to be an ordeal. My middle child often feels overwhelmed by the transition from the calm of home to the sensory overload of a classroom. We started using a visual schedule that outlines the day step-by-step. We also found that arriving 10 minutes early, when the hallways are quieter, helps to ease his anxiety. He now approaches school with less fear because we took the time to understand his needs and worked out a system that supports him.
Grocery Store Trips
Grocery stores used to be a minefield. Between the harsh lights, echoing sounds, and crowds, my youngest would be overwhelmed. At first, I tried to rush through the store, hoping to avoid a meltdown. But that never worked. Now, we plan trips at quieter times and I let her wear noise-canceling headphones. We’ve made grocery shopping not just manageable, but a positive experience because we’re working on her level.
Why It’s Important to Meet Them Where They Are
When you meet your child at their level, you're sending the message that they matter exactly as they are. You're also modeling empathy, patience, and problem-solving—skills that are invaluable for any child. For kids with sensory needs, these accommodations aren’t about giving in or making excuses; they are about creating an environment where they can thrive, not just survive.
By meeting my kids where they are, I’m helping them feel safe and validated in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. It’s about making small changes that lead to big wins—for them and for us as a family.
If you're a parent navigating sensory challenges, know that you're not alone. Trust yourself, observe your child, and remember that progress comes from understanding their needs in real-time. Parenting isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. And sometimes, that connection starts with meeting them exactly where they are.