Sensory Spring Clean: Supporting Children with Special Needs

Spring Cleaning: Boosting Wellbeing for Kids with Disabilities

Parents of children with special needs have many considerations to make for their home. And before we can even consider cleaning a home, it might be best to think about how we should get it set up to support our children in meeting any needs they may have.

Adapting Homes for Inclusivity

We need to adapt our homes to meet the needs of multiple family members, and this can certainly include accessibility needs like special locks, lowered counters, lighting, or wheelchair-accessible showers. This will certainly be something that changes over time as well. We want to ensure that our home is inclusive to everyone, which involves several considerations.

General Tips for Accessibility

In general, we can help our home be accessible by removing obstacles, using ramps if needed, and providing ample space for mobility aids. We can adapt furniture and fixtures to accommodate specific needs, such as adjustable tables or sensory-friendly elements.

Professional Guidance

For the less “tangible” supports, we can establish clear routines and communication methods to enhance predictability. Additionally, it may be best to foster a supportive atmosphere by incorporating activities and tools that cater to our child’s abilities and interests. We also need to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance regularly. For example, Occupational Therapists can provide support surrounding spatial awareness and sensory needs (e.g., motor function). Applied Behavior Analysis providers can provide ideas on how to support independent skills (e.g., visual checklists or aides). And Speech Pathologists have the knowledge to support communication needs.

Spring Cleaning for Sensory Sensitivities

Now that we have established how we can set up a supportive and inclusive environment, we want to make sure it’s clean and organized. Specifically, spring cleaning involves considering sensory sensitivities, establishing routines, and organizing spaces. Begin by decluttering, focusing on minimizing overwhelming stimuli.

Implement sensory-friendly decor, such as soft lighting and calming colors. Establish predictable routines to provide structure and reduce anxiety. Organize spaces logically, ensuring items are easily accessible. Pay attention to sensory elements like textures and smells. Additionally, involve your child in the process, respecting their preferences. By prioritizing sensory considerations and maintaining routine, parents can create a supportive home environment for a child with special needs. Here are some examples of how parents can apply these tips in their home:

1. Declutter Mindfully:

1. Remove unnecessary items to minimize visual stimuli.
2. Store toys and belongings in labeled bins to create an organized space.
3. Consider your child’s preferences when deciding what to keep or discard.

2. Sensory-Friendly Decor:

1. Opt for calming colors on walls and furnishings.
2. Use soft lighting or natural light to create a soothing atmosphere.
3. Introduce sensory-friendly textures through rugs, blankets, and cushions.

3. Establish Predictable Routines:

1. Maintain a consistent cleaning routine to provide structure.
2. Clearly communicate the plan to your child, helping them understand the process.
3. Use visual schedules or charts to illustrate a cleaning routine.

4. Organize Spaces Logically:

1. Arrange furniture and belongings in a logical and predictable manner.
2. Label shelves and containers to aid in finding items easily.
3. Create designated spaces for specific activities to reduce sensory overload.

5. Consider Sensory Elements:

1. Be mindful of textures in fabrics, flooring, and cleaning materials.
2. Choose cleaning products with mild scents or consider unscented options.
3. Provide headphones or earplugs if the child is sensitive to loud cleaning noises.

6. Involve Your Child:

1. Allow your child to participate in cleaning tasks at their comfort level.
2. Respect their preferences regarding the organization of their personal space.
3. Use cleaning activities as opportunities for positive interactions and bonding.

7. Personalized Safe Spaces:

1. Designate a calming and safe space where your child can retreat during cleaning.
2. Fill this space with comfort items like soft pillows, favorite toys, or books.
3. Ensure this space remains undisturbed during the cleaning process.

8. Communication is Key:

1. Clearly explain the purpose of spring cleaning and the benefits.
2. Use simple language and visual aids to facilitate understanding.
3. Encourage open communication, allowing your child to express their feelings.

9. Gradual Changes:

1. Introduce changes gradually to avoid overwhelming your child.
2. Monitor their reactions and adjust the cleaning process accordingly.
3. Celebrate small successes and improvements together by providing breaks or giving your child small rewards throughout the process.

10. Celebrate Achievements:

1. Acknowledge your child’s efforts and involvement in the cleaning process.
2. Create a positive association with spring cleaning by highlighting its benefits.
3. Consider small rewards or special activities as a celebration after completing tasks.

As mentioned, spring cleaning can be particularly beneficial for people with disabilities in several ways. A decluttered and organized living space enhances accessibility, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to navigate their homes. Removing obstacles and unnecessary items can create more open pathways, facilitating easier movement. In addition, a thorough cleaning can contribute to a healthier living environment, which is crucial for individuals with certain sensitivities or respiratory conditions. Removing dust, allergens, and pollutants can improve indoor air quality, positively impacting the overall well-being of people with disabilities.

Organizing and labeling items during spring cleaning can assist those with cognitive disabilities in locating things more easily, promoting a greater sense of independence. The process of spring cleaning can be tailored to address specific needs and create a more supportive and comfortable living space for individuals with disabilities. By tailoring the spring-cleaning process to accommodate sensory sensitivities, physical accessibility needs, establishing routines, and involving the child, parents can create a home environment that supports the well-being of our children.

ABOUT AUTHOR:
About Author Holly Downs

Holly is the Director of Ethical Compliance at PBS Corp and an instructor at Capella University. She is a certified behavior analyst with over a decade of experience in various populations

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• Organizing Your Child’s Special Education File: Do It Right
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• Why Chores Are Good for Your Kids and How to Get Them to Do Them to Do It

Sensory Rooms

• DIY Sensory Rooms on a Budget!
• How to Create a Calming Closet: How we did it!
• Sensory Spaces for You, Me, and SPD
• How Calming Sensory Spaces can help, and how to create one in a corner?
• Enriching Your Child’s Sensory Environment Within Their Typical Routine
• Biophilic Design Can Benefit People with Special Needs
• Eight Key Design Issues for Special Needs Environmental Design

This post originally appeared on our January/February 2024 Magazine