Keeping children warm and comfortable during the cold winter months is essential, but it can sometimes be difficult to dress autistic children in the proper attire when they have sensory issues. Some autistic children have a hard time transitioning from summer to winter attire because they do not like the way it feels to have their skin completely covered. Use the guide below to learn a few tips for choosing the perfect attire for your autistic child to wear this winter.
Choose Comfortable Socks
Autistic children who have sensory issues need socks that fit their feet perfectly. Choose socks that are made from soft, stretchy materials. You want to be sure that the socks do not slouch throughout the day when your child is wearing them, such as the seamless kids’ socks by SmartKnit Kids that have a non-binding Halo top that keeps the socks in place all day long. Choose colors that allow your child to show their unique personality when they wear the socks to better the chances of them wearing them.
Choose Comfortable Boots
You want to be sure to take the time to find boots that make your child feel comfortable and keep their feet warm during the cold winter weather. Consider the weight of the boots to ensure that they are not too heavy for your child to walk in with ease.
You also want to choose boots that are easy for your child to take on and off on their own. This will give them the ability to be independent from time to time. It is best to let your child try on the boots and walk around in them before buying a pair to ensure that they are comfortable for your child to wear. You may want to avoid boots with heels on them as they can cause your child to twist his or her ankle when they walk or run in the boots.
Choose a Warm Jacket
When choosing a jacket for your child, there are many different factors that need to be considered. You need to consider the closure for the jacket. Some autistic children do not have the dexterity needed to be able to easily close snaps, buttons, or clasps. You may want to consider a jacket that closes with a zipper, as this will be the easiest option for your child to close on their own.
Also, choose a color for the jacket that your child will look forward to wearing. Many autistic children have an opinion about the colors that they will prefer to wear and choosing a jacket that does not fall into their preferred color scheme can make getting dressed each day overly difficult.
Consider the fabric that is used to line the inside of the jacket before buying it. Autistic children with sensory issues will have a preference on materials, as well. If the fabric lining feels uncomfortable against their skin, your child will not want to wear it. Have your child try on any jacket you are considering before buying one to ensure that the lining meets with their approval.
Transition your child to their new winter attire gradually. Allow him or her to wear their new socks right away. Allow them to wear their boots when it rains before it actually gets cold so that they can adjust to the way it feels to walk in the boots, rather than the tennis shoes or sandals they are used to wearing during the warmer summer months. Taking the time to allow your child to acclimate to their new attire over time will make the transition easier for them and for you.
