Adaptive Clothes For Children With Autism

March 12, 2024

Understanding Autism and Sensory Sensitivities

For parents of children with autism, understanding sensory sensitivities and challenges is essential in providing the best care and support. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often brings with it unique sensory experiences and sensitivities. In this section, we will explore the sensory challenges that individuals with autism may face, including hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity.

Sensory Challenges in Autism

Sensory issues are common in people with autism and are a part of the diagnostic criteria for ASD. Each autistic individual has their own distinct sensory sensitivities, which can manifest in various ways. These challenges can include hypersensitivity, which refers to over-responsiveness to sensory stimuli, and hyposensitivity, which is a state of under-responsiveness.

Hypersensitivity can present as an extreme sensitivity to bright lights, certain light wavelengths (such as LED or fluorescent lights), sounds, smells, textures, and tastes. This sensitivity can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as pulling away from physical touch, covering ears to avoid loud sounds, or avoiding certain types of clothing.

Hypersensitivity and Hyposensitivity

In addition to hypersensitivity, many individuals with autism also experience hyposensitivity. Hyposensitivity is characterized by a reduced sensitivity to sensory stimulation, which can result in a constant need for movement, difficulty recognizing sensations like hunger or pain, and an attraction to loud noises, bright lights, and vibrant colors. People who are hyposensitive may engage in sensory-seeking behaviors, such as making loud noises, touching people or objects, or rocking back and forth [1].

Understanding the sensory challenges faced by children with autism is crucial in creating an environment that supports their unique needs. By recognizing and accommodating hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity, parents can help their children navigate the world around them with greater comfort and ease. Sensory issues can impact various aspects of daily life, including clothing choices, which we will explore further in the following sections.

Importance of Clothing for Children with Autism

When it comes to children with autism, clothing plays a crucial role in their comfort and overall well-being. For children who experience sensory sensitivities, wearing the right clothing can make a significant difference in their daily lives. In this section, we will explore the impact of sensory-friendly clothing and how it addresses comfort and sensory discomfort for children with autism.

Impact of Sensory-Friendly Clothing

Sensory-friendly clothing is specifically designed to accommodate the unique needs of children with autism. It takes into account their sensory sensitivities and aims to create a comfortable and non-restrictive clothing experience. Sensory-friendly clothing can have a positive impact on children with autism in several ways.

Firstly, sensory-friendly clothing often eliminates or reduces common triggers that may cause discomfort or distress. For example, clothing items may be tagless and seamless, as these features can minimize irritation and sensory overload. By removing these potential sources of discomfort, sensory-friendly clothing allows children to focus on other activities and promotes a sense of calmness.

Additionally, sensory-friendly clothing promotes independence and self-confidence. Clothing that is easy to put on and take off, such as garments with Velcro and elastic closures, empowers children to dress themselves and develop essential life skills. By providing clothing options that are manageable for children with autism, they can gain a sense of accomplishment and build their self-esteem.

Addressing Comfort and Sensory Discomfort

Comfort is a key consideration when it comes to clothing for children with autism. Sensory-friendly clothing takes into account the specific sensory sensitivities of these children and strives to create a comfortable and non-restrictive fit.

One important aspect of sensory-friendly clothing is the choice of fabric. Soft and sensory-friendly fabrics like cotton, bamboo, flannel, and fleece are recommended, as they are gentle on the skin and reduce sensory overload [3]. These fabrics provide a comfortable tactile experience and minimize potential irritants that may trigger sensory sensitivities.

In addition to fabric choices, sensory-friendly clothing often incorporates design features that enhance comfort. For example, tagless and seamless designs prevent irritation and minimize the discomfort caused by rough seams and labels. Adaptive clothing brands also consider functional aspects, such as garments with flaps for feeding tube access or wheelchair-friendly jackets with side-openings and zip-on sleeves, to ensure ease of use and comfort [2].

By addressing comfort and sensory discomfort, sensory-friendly clothing allows children with autism to navigate their daily routines with greater ease and comfort. It enhances their overall well-being and helps them engage with the world around them in a more comfortable and confident manner.

Adaptive Clothing Options for Children with Autism

When it comes to clothing for children with autism, opting for adaptive designs can make a significant difference in their comfort and overall well-being. Adaptive clothing is specifically designed to address the unique sensory sensitivities and challenges that children with autism may experience. Here are some popular adaptive clothing options to consider:

Tagless and Seamless Designs

Many children with autism are sensitive to the texture and placement of clothing tags, which can cause discomfort and sensory overload. Tagless clothing eliminates this issue by removing traditional tags and labels that can irritate the skin. Instead, key information is printed directly on the fabric. Additionally, seamless designs are beneficial as they eliminate irritating seams that can cause skin irritations and meltdowns. Seamless clothing provides a smooth and comfortable fit, reducing sensory sensitivities and promoting a sense of calm.

Velcro and Elastic Closures

For children with fine motor challenges, buttons and zippers can be difficult to manage. Velcro closures offer a practical alternative, providing an easy and quick fastening option. Velcro allows children to dress themselves independently, encouraging a sense of accomplishment and boosting their self-esteem. Elastic closures, such as waistbands and cuffs, provide flexibility and ease of wear, ensuring a comfortable fit and accommodating individual needs.

Soft and Sensory-Friendly Fabrics

Choosing the right fabric is crucial when selecting clothing for children with autism. Soft and sensory-friendly materials can help reduce sensory overload and discomfort. Fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, flannel, and fleece are highly recommended due to their softness, comfort, and ability to minimize sensory sensitivities. These materials are gentle on the skin and provide a cozy and soothing feel, promoting a sense of well-being.

It's important to note that various brands specialize in adaptive clothing for children with autism. Some notable brands include:

Target's Adaptive Clothing Line: Target offers a range of adaptive clothing options, including tagless and seamless designs, body suits for easy diaper changes, and wheelchair-friendly jackets with side-openings and zip-on sleeves for easier dressing.
SpecialKids.Company: SpecialKids.Company, founded by Sasha Radwan, provides adaptive clothing designed based on feedback from parents, occupational therapists, and children. Their clothing includes one-piece suits, garments with flaps for feeding tube access, and socks with loops to assist with coordination problems. These designs are age-appropriate and incorporate stylish details like polo collars and raglan sleeves.
Runway of Dreams: Runway of Dreams, founded by Mindy Scheier, focuses on inclusive clothing designs. Their adaptive clothing is designed to fit properly over leg braces and is easy to put on and take off, making dressing more manageable for children with special needs.
Downs Designs Dreams and NBZ Jeans: Downs Designs Dreams and NBZ Jeans offer clothing solutions for individuals with various disabilities, including autism, by providing features like no buttons and zipperless jeans. These adaptations address dressing challenges and promote independence and comfort.

By considering adaptive clothing options such as tagless and seamless designs, Velcro and elastic closures, and soft and sensory-friendly fabrics, parents can help their children with autism feel more comfortable and supported in their everyday attire. It's essential to involve children in the clothing selection process, prioritize their comfort and independence, and consider the sensory issues they may face. Adaptive clothing not only enhances their physical comfort but also contributes to their overall well-being and confidence.

Adaptive Clothing Brands for Children with Autism

When it comes to finding clothing that meets the unique needs of children with autism, there are several adaptive clothing brands that offer specially designed garments. These brands focus on creating clothing that addresses sensory sensitivities, provides comfort, and promotes independence. Here are some notable adaptive clothing brands for children with autism:

Target's Adaptive Clothing Line

Target has released an adaptive clothing line that caters to children with sensory sensitivities. The clothing in this line is designed without tags or seams, making them more comfortable for children with sensory sensitivity. The collection includes body suits that allow for easy diaper changes and wheelchair-friendly jackets with side-openings and zip-on sleeves for easier dressing. Target's adaptive clothing line aims to provide inclusive clothing options for children with autism and other special needs [2].

SpecialKids.Company

SpecialKids.Company, founded by Sasha Radwan, offers a range of adaptive clothing for children with various physical and mental challenges. The clothing line includes one-piece suits that prevent diaper access, garments with flaps for feeding tube access, and socks with loops to assist with coordination problems. SpecialKids.Company focuses on creating clothing that meets the specific needs of children with autism and other special needs, allowing them to dress comfortably and confidently.

Runway of Dreams

Runway of Dreams, founded by Mindy Scheier, is an adaptive clothing brand that promotes inclusive clothing designs. Inspired by her son with muscular dystrophy, Scheier aims to provide clothing that fits properly over leg braces and is easy to put on and take off. Runway of Dreams collaborates with mainstream brands to create adaptive versions of their clothing, ensuring that children with autism and other disabilities have access to fashionable and functional clothing options.

Downs Designs Dreams and NBZ Jeans

Downs Designs Dreams and NBZ Jeans offer clothing solutions for individuals with disabilities, including autism. These brands focus on addressing dressing challenges by offering features like no buttons and zipperless jeans. Downs Designs Dreams advocates disability awareness, promotes independence, and instills confidence by designing, developing, and marketing a special clothing line for individuals with disabilities and their families. These brands aim to make dressing easier and more comfortable for individuals with autism and other special needs.

When choosing adaptive clothing for children with autism, it's important to consider their specific sensory needs and preferences. These adaptive clothing brands offer innovative solutions that prioritize comfort, functionality, and inclusivity. By exploring the options provided by these brands, parents can find clothing that allows their children with autism to dress comfortably and confidently.

Choosing the Right Clothing for Children with Autism

When it comes to choosing clothing for children with autism, there are several considerations that can help address their sensory needs and promote comfort and independence. By involving children in the clothing selection process, providing comfort and independence, and incorporating visual supports and routines, parents can create a positive and sensory-friendly experience.

Involving Children in Clothing Selection

It is important to involve children with autism in the clothing selection process to address their sensory needs and preferences. By allowing them to have a say in the clothing choices, parents can empower their children and promote self-regulation. This involvement can range from providing options for color and style to considering their individual sensitivities and aversions.

Providing Comfort and Independence

Offering choices in clothing options can empower children with autism to feel more in control of their routine and reduce stress related to clothing choices. Providing clothing that is comfortable, non-restrictive, and suited to individual sensory sensitivities can have a significant impact on their well-being. Opting for tagless shirts, seamless socks, and adjustable waistbands can accommodate individual needs and preferences, allowing children to experience clothing that is both comfortable and suitable for their sensory sensitivities [7].

Visual Supports and Routine

Visual supports can greatly benefit children with autism when getting dressed. Visual schedules, picture cues, or step-by-step guides can provide clear guidance, reduce confusion, and alleviate anxiety during the dressing process. Visual supports help children understand and follow the routine, enabling them to navigate the steps involved in getting dressed more independently [8].

By involving children in clothing selection, providing comfort and independence, and incorporating visual supports and routines, parents can create a positive and sensory-friendly clothing experience for children with autism. It is important to remember that each child with autism has unique sensory sensitivities, and finding the right clothing options tailored to their specific needs can greatly enhance their overall well-being.

Tips for Creating Sensory-Friendly Clothing

When designing sensory-friendly clothing for children with autism, certain considerations can make a significant difference in comfort and reducing sensory sensitivities. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Fabric Choices for Sensory Sensitivities

Selecting the right fabric is crucial for children with autism who have sensory sensitivities. Fabrics that are soft, breathable, and gentle on the skin are recommended. Cotton, bamboo, flannel, and fleece are often preferred choices as they provide comfort and help minimize sensory overload. These fabrics are mentioned in Autism Parenting Magazine and Yellow Bus for their sensory-friendly properties.

Consider incorporating fabrics like fleece, jersey, and terry knits, which offer a calming, cozy feel, warmth, and softness. These fabrics can also have a small amount of elastane or spandex for added stretch, ensuring comfort, as mentioned in Mood Fabrics.

Design Considerations for Comfort

Ensure that the design of the clothing takes into account the specific needs of children with autism. Consider using seamless construction, as mentioned in Autism Parenting Magazine, to prevent irritation and discomfort caused by seams. Seamless clothing eliminates the presence of irritating seams that can trigger sensory sensitivities and meltdowns.

Opt for tagless designs or removable tags and labels, as mentioned in Autism Parenting Magazine and Mood Fabrics. Tags are often a source of discomfort due to their texture and placement. Detachable tags or tagless designs can prevent sensory issues and irritations.

Consider using velcro or elastic closures instead of buttons or zippers. Velcro provides easy and quick fastening, which can be helpful for children with fine motor challenges, as mentioned in Autism Parenting Magazine. Elastic closures offer a comfortable alternative and are easy to sew and wear, as mentioned in Mood Fabrics.

Pre-Washing and Testing Fabrics

Before using fabrics for sensory-friendly clothing, it is recommended to pre-wash them. This step, mentioned in Mood Fabrics, adds softness and stretch to the fabric. Pre-washing also helps pre-shrink the fabric, reducing shrinkage throughout the garment's life cycle.

To ensure that the chosen fabric meets the sensory needs of the child with autism, it is advisable to order a swatch before making a purchase. This allows the fabric to be felt and evaluated for its suitability, saving both time and money, as mentioned in Mood Fabrics.

By considering fabric choices, design elements, and pre-washing practices, you can create sensory-friendly clothing that caters to the unique needs of children with autism. These tips can help provide comfort, reduce sensory sensitivities, and enhance the overall well-being of children with autism.

Understanding Sensory Issues in Autism

Children with autism often experience sensory issues, which can significantly impact their daily lives. It's important for parents and caregivers to understand these sensory sensitivities in order to provide appropriate support and accommodations. In this section, we will explore hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity, sensory avoidance and sensory seeking, as well as sensory overload and coping strategies.

Hypersensitivity and Hyposensitivity

Sensory sensitivities are included in the diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder and can vary from person to person. Hypersensitivity refers to being over-responsive to sensory stimuli. Autistic individuals with hypersensitivity may experience heightened sensitivity to bright lights, certain light wavelengths (such as LED or fluorescent lights), sounds, smells, textures, and tastes [1]. These hypersensitivities can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as pulling away from physical touch, covering ears to avoid loud sounds, or avoiding certain types of clothing.

On the other hand, hyposensitivity refers to being under-responsive to sensory stimuli. Autistic individuals with hyposensitivity may have difficulty recognizing sensations like hunger or pain and may have a constant need for movement. They may also be attracted to loud noises, bright lights, and vibrant colors. People who are hyposensitive may engage in sensory seeking behaviors, such as making loud noises, touching people or objects, or rocking back and forth.

Understanding these sensory sensitivities and whether a child leans more towards hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity can help parents and caregivers provide tailored support and accommodations.

Sensory Avoidance and Sensory Seeking

Sensory avoidance is commonly observed in individuals with autism who experience hypersensitivity. This involves avoiding or withdrawing from sensory stimuli that trigger discomfort or overstimulation. For example, a child may avoid crowded or noisy environments, cover their ears in response to loud sounds, or resist wearing certain types of clothing that feel uncomfortable or irritating.

Conversely, sensory seeking behavior is often seen in individuals with hyposensitivity. They may actively seek out sensory input to satisfy their sensory needs. This can include seeking tactile stimulation by touching people or objects, seeking movement through activities like spinning or jumping, or seeking out loud or intense sensory experiences.

Sensory Overload and Coping Strategies

Sensory overload occurs when an individual with autism becomes overwhelmed by intense sensory stimuli that exceed their coping abilities. It can be triggered by unexpected loud noises or build up over time due to coping with daily sensory sensitivities. Sensory overload can manifest as feelings of intense anxiety, a need to escape the environment, difficulty communicating, or displaying challenging behaviors.

To help individuals with autism cope with sensory overload, it is important to provide a supportive and soothing environment. This can include providing a quiet space for them to retreat to, using calming techniques such as deep pressure or sensory tools like weighted blankets, and employing visual supports to aid communication and understanding.

Coping strategies can vary depending on the individual's preferences and sensory needs. It's crucial to work closely with the child and their therapists or healthcare professionals to develop personalized coping strategies. These strategies may involve creating predictable routines, using visual schedules or social stories to prepare for sensory experiences, and implementing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises.

By understanding the sensory issues associated with autism and implementing appropriate coping strategies, parents and caregivers can help create a supportive and inclusive environment for children with autism. Accommodations tailored to their sensory needs can promote their comfort, well-being, and overall development.