Understanding Sensory Overload: What It Is and How You Can Help

From one parent to another - you’ve got this.

Hi there! I’m a neurodivergent mum raising three amazing, neurodivergent kiddos - and if there’s one thing I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way), it’s how real and intense sensory overload can be.

If you’ve ever watched your child go from happy to completely melting down in the space of a minute - after a trip to the shops, a noisy classroom, or even a birthday party - chances are, you’ve seen sensory overload in action.

Let’s break it down in plain speak, and I’ll share some of the things that have helped us in our home.

So... What Is Sensory Overload?

Imagine every sound, smell, light, touch, and movement in your world is turned up to 100 - all at once.
There’s no volume dial. No pause button. No filter.

For neurodivergent kids (and adults too!), that’s what sensory overload feels like. It’s when the brain gets flooded with more input than it can handle, and it’s just too much.

The result?
Shutdown. Meltdown. Panic. Tears. Screaming. Running away. Hiding.
Not because your child is being “naughty” or “overreacting” - but because their nervous system is completely overwhelmed

Signs of Sensory Overload

Every child is different, but here are some things I’ve seen in my own kids (and myself):

• Covering ears or eyes
• Hiding under blankets, tables, or clothes
• Yelling, crying, or going non-verbal
• Fidgeting, pacing, or bolting
• Saying “Stop!” or “Too loud!” or “I can’t!”
• Suddenly getting angry, upset or totally shutting down

Sometimes the signs are subtle. Sometimes it hits like a freight train. Either way, it’s not about attention-seeking - it’s about nervous system survival mode.

What Triggers It?

Triggers can be different for every person, but here are a few common ones we deal with:

• Bright lights (especially those awful fluorescent ones ?)
• Loud or layered noises (like music and people talking and dogs barking)
• Clothing textures, tags, or seams
• Unexpected touch
• Crowds or busy environments
• Transitions without warning (change = chaos for many kids)
• Strong smells (cleaners, perfumes, food)

Even fun things we enjoy can be too much if the sensory input piles on too fast.

What Can You Do to Help?

Okay, here’s the good part: there are ways to help. These are real-world strategies I’ve used with my own kids (and myself, let’s be honest):

1. Know Your Child’s Triggers

Start paying attention to what overwhelms them. Keep a little note in your phone if you need to.
If you know what sets them off, you can either avoid it, or prep for it.

2. Prep Before You Go

Heading to the shops, school, or an event? Give your child a heads-up on what to expect. Use visuals, checklists, or even a quick “Let’s talk about the plan.”

For example:
“First we go to Coles, then we get hot chips, then we come home. If it’s too noisy, you can wear your headphones.”

3. Create a Sensory Toolkit

• Pack a little bag of helpful goodies:
• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Fidget toys
• Sunglasses
• Favourite snack or drink
• Visual schedule or calming app
• Weighted toy or lap buddy

This kit has saved us more times than I can count!

4. Offer a Safe Space

Sometimes they just need to get away. Set up a “calm corner” at home - think soft lighting, comfy cushions, low noise, and zero expectations. At events, scout out a quiet spot ahead of time where they can retreat if needed.

5. Stay Calm and Compassionate

Yes, it’s hard. Especially in public. Especially when people stare. But your child needs connection, not correction.

Get low, speak gently, and offer them an out:
“It’s okay, I can see it’s too much.”
“Let’s go somewhere quieter.”
“I’m here. You’re safe.”

You’re Not Alone

If you’ve ever left a party in tears because your child was “too much,”
If you’ve ever sat in the car and cried after a sensory meltdown at the shops,
If you’ve ever felt judged, exhausted, and unsure what to do next,
I see you.

You’re not failing. Your child is not broken.
You’re navigating a world that wasn’t built with our kids in mind  - but together, we’re changing that.

At Sensory Oasis for Kids, we’re here for you. Whether you need sensory tools, visual supports, or just to know you’re not the only one - you’ve got a community here.

Big love,
From one neurodivergent family to yours x