When it comes to a child’s sensory preferences, we know that they’re all different!
Some children crave movement, touch, and excitement, while others prefer quiet, predictable environments. I know so many children that sit nicely in one or other of these camps.
Understanding whether your child is a sensory seeker or a sensory avoider can really help when it comes to sleep.
What Are Sensory Seekers and Sensory Avoiders?
Sensory seekers actively seek out stimulation. They thrive on movement, deep pressure, and strong sensory input. These children are often high-energy and may need a little extra stimulation - 100% my daughter.
Sensory seekers can struggle to sleep if:
There’s not been enough movement throughout the day or as part of the bedtime routine
They don’t have enough visual stimulation before bed
Their sleep space is too empty
They perhaps don’t have something to fidget
Sensory avoiders, on the other hand, can become overwhelmed by too much input. They prefer gentle, predictable interactions and may shy away from loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures.
Sensory avoiders may struggle to sleep if:
They’ve had a busy, stimulating day
They haven’t had the slow, calm wind down before bed
They can feel the tag or seams on their PJs
Their sleep space is cluttered
Common Behaviors and Preferences for Sleep
So now let’s look at what we CAN do in terms of preferred day time play and as part of their bedtime routine:
Play Preferences for Sensory Seekers:
Include different textures for play -sand, water, slime, rice etc
Climbing, bouncing, or spinning activities
Music, dancing, and playing instruments - sensory seekers can frequently makes loud noises and enjoys stimulating sounds.
Bedtime Preferences for Sensory Seekers:
A bedtime routine that includes movement (e.g., think jumping, action songs, rocking in a chair)
Deep pressure activities like a firm hug, squeezing into small spaces or weighted blanket
White noise or rhythmic sounds to help regulate
Storytime with interactive elements (e.g., touch-and-feel books)
Play Preferences for Sensory Avoiders:
Quiet, independent play with familiar toys
Soft sensory items (plush toys, smooth fabrics)
Gentle, repetitive motions like swaying or slow swinging
Books, puzzles, and non-messy creative activities like coloring
Bedtime Preferences for Sensory Avoiders:
A calm, low-stimulation environment (dim lights, soft sounds)
Predictable and slow-paced bedtime routine
Soft, breathable pajamas and bedding
Gentle rocking or a slow-paced lullaby
Avoidance of excessive touch or pressure
Adding some of these ideas to your day and bedtime routine can really go a long way in helping our little ones settle to sleep.
However - there are some children who sit in the middle and display a mix of sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors…….
Mixed Sensory Preferences
These children may seek out movement and deep pressure in some situations but can become overwhelmed by certain textures or sounds in others - my son sits more in this mixed camp.
If you think this may be your little one too, my best advice here is:
Observe: Be mindful and conscious about which sensory inputs your child seeks versus which ones they avoid.
Offer Choices: Providing a variety of sensory experiences lets your child engage at their own comfort level. For example, if they dislike loud sounds but enjoy movement, try a silent dance activity instead of music-based play.
Create a Flexible Bedtime Routine: Incorporate elements of both sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding strategies. A child who enjoys movement but is sensitive to touch might benefit from active play earlier in the evening, followed by a quiet, touch-free winding-down routine.
Use Transitional Activities: I always recommend this but if your child struggles with switching between high-energy and low-energy activities, make sure you have that transition to calm, perhaps with some as deep-pressure input before a bedtime story for example.
Respect Individual Differences: Every child’s sensory profile is unique. Being patient and adaptable to their changing preferences can help build a more effective routine.
I hope that gives you some ideas for your little one and helps you think about how you may be able to tweak their routine and bedtime activities suit them best.
Ready to Get More Sleep?
If you’d like a helping hand to improve sleep for your family, then I am are here to help.
Book in for a free 30min call if you'd like more support.
Comments