Tips for Working with a Child Who Is Less Sensitive to Senses

Friends, Family and Home

• Provide brighter colors in her bedroom, more pictures around the house and different music.
• Encourage quieter, calmer activities with friends.
• Make sure family members ask if they can give hugs and kisses to be sure they are wanted at the time.
• Help family not take it personally when a baby prefers not to be held.

Learning, Childcare and School

• Choose childcare programs that have good lighting and lots of colorful pictures, toys and materials.
• Be sure that school and childcare teachers provide many art and music activities.
• Choose toys that are bright and colorful.
• Encourage teachers and friends to expose a baby to different sights, sounds and experiences.

Activities and Television

• Provide him with colorful toys, musical instruments and activities that involve light, sound and color.
• Give her a music player and a choice of songs to listen to.
• Watch the volume on television and music so that he doesn't damage his hearing.
• Provide infant toys with many textures and activities that involve all of her senses.

Guidance and Discipline

• Give lots of love with words when he doesn't want to be held and help him do the same.
• Have her stop, look around a messy area and show her what needs to be picked up.
• Point out beautiful sunsets, soft and loud music and other things he may not notice.