Sensory Integration Education

Valentine's Day is approaching and for many young people, it's a fun experience. However, for some, Valentine’s Day can cause them to be filled with stress, anxiety and fear. 

For many neurodivergent young people, Valentine’s Day can come with disruptive commotion, extra information to process, emotional signals and exchanges that they are unsure of and language that they might struggle to process.

Some children and young people can feel left out if they do not receive cards or gifts and may feel overwhelmed by disappointment come the end of Valentine’s Day. Many young people with sensory processing differences might feel self-conscious already and not receiving cards or gifts or being invited to a Valentine’s Day party or dance might add to their feelings of exclusion and low self-esteem.

In addition, some of the triggers related to Valentine’s Day that can be disruptive for neurodivergent young people and others with sensory processing differences can include a break from routine, unusual decorations and displays and group activities with unclear purposes.

So what can we do to make Valentine’s Day a special day for all? At home you can start with activities that help your neurodivergent child or teen feel safe and valued. A child or young person who feels safe and connected will be able to better process emotional disappointments in the outside world. 

You can use this day as an opportunity to discuss and celebrate differences. Help your child or teen notice how they can have a lot in common with others and, at the same time, differ from others and how these variations of self are beautiful in their own right. 

Also use the day as an opportunity to teach children and young people to celebrate themselves and to remind them how their worth is not defined by opinions, gifts or invitations from others. Perhaps plan a favourite activity to celebrate your child.

Finally, check with your child’s school if they are planning any early Valentine’s Day activities. Make sure you get all the small details from the school so that your child or teen is prepared and knows what to expect. This includes things like the decorations they plan on putting up as well as any coloured or themed clothing that children are going to be encouraged to wear. 

Happy Valentine's Day!

Best wishes

Lelanie

PS You might also be interested in our free online course ‘Discover Sensory Processing and Integration’. This course explores the eight sensory systems and will enrich your understanding of sensory processing differences and their impact on behaviour and daily life. Watch it for free here.