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Caring for children comes with unique challenges—but also incredible rewards. As a nanny, you play a vital role in helping children navigate their world with confidence. This guide is part of ‘Understanding Neurodivergence,’ an 8-part series designed to give you practical, easy-to-use strategies to support children in their daily lives. From managing transitions and sensory needs, to supporting emotional regulation and communication skills, we’ll help equip you with real, actionable techniques to create a nurturing, structured, and empowering environment for the children in your care. Whether you’re new to these challenges or looking to refine your approach, this series will help you support each child’s unique strengths and needs—one step at a time.
Sensory Sensitivities: Helping children navigate an overwhelming world
We all use our senses to make sense of the world around us. However, how we perceive and react to everyday sensations varies between individuals. The world presents us with a wealth of sensory input – everything from the brightness of lights to the feel of different fabrics – and children especially can find processing this information difficult. Some might be easily overwhelmed by certain sensations, while others will actively seek out specific sensations. Recognising these individual differences is crucial for nannies in order to support the children they care for.
What are Sensory Sensitivities?
Sensory sensitivities are normally expressed in one of two ways: hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity. Hypersensitivity is extreme sensory sensitivity – loud noises might be painful, bright lights could be blinding, and certain textures might feel unbearable. Hyposensitivity, on the other hand, is sensory under-sensitivity. In children, this often leads to seeking out more sensory stimulation, perhaps craving tight hugs, enjoying crashing into things, or engaging in self-stimulation – commonly called ‘stimming’. It’s important to remember that each child is unique, and a child can be hypersensitive to some things and hyposensitive to others.
Watch this video to learn more about what living with sensory sensitivities can be like for a young child:
Spotting Sensory Triggers
As a nanny, you play a significant role in identifying a child’s sensory triggers. This involves carefully observing their reactions in various situations. You might notice a child covering their ears when the vacuum cleaner is on, getting upset in crowded places, or constantly seeking physical contact with you. If the child you care for is getting tense, loud, or withdrawn, this could be an early sign of sensory overload. Keeping a simple diary can be a helpful way to track when and where a child seems to struggle or get upset. This practice can help you spot patterns and identify potential triggers.
Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment
At home, there are plenty of adjustments you can make to create a sensory-friendly environment for the child you’re caring for. If bright lights are a problem, using softer lamps or natural light can be beneficial. Allowing the child to wear a cap or sunglasses indoors might also be helpful. For children sensitive to noise, offering noise-cancelling headphones or ear defenders can be very useful, especially during noisy activities. Pre-warning children about potential triggers may also help them prepare themselves.
Creating a designated quiet, calming “safe space” where the child can retreat to relax and de-stress is also a great idea. This could be a cozy corner with cushions and soft textures, a weighted blanket for their bed, or even a blanket fort. Additionally, providing fidget tools like stress balls, chewable toys, or wiggle cushions can help children who need the sensory stimulation of movement to stay focused. Finally, be mindful of smells by avoiding strong perfumes or cleaning products – familiar, mild scents can be more comforting.
Going Out and About:
When you’re out and about, plan ahead by choosing quieter times and places if possible, such as visiting the park early in the morning or the shops during off-peak hours. Some shops offer sensory-friendly hours, with dimmer lighting and reduced noise. Always be prepared by bringing sensory aids like noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, or sunglasses. It’s also crucial to watch for signs of distress in the child and find a quiet place for them to calm down if they seem overwhelmed. If you have to wait in line, try to position the child where they feel most comfortable or, if necessary, step out of the queue temporarily.
Helping with Sensory Overwhelm:
When a child experiences sensory overwhelm, they may become agitated, upset or withdraw from the situation. Respond with calmness and empathy, and try to remove or move away from whatever is triggering the child. If that’s not possible, focus on calming techniques like deep breathing or redirection.
Extreme sensory overwhelm may trigger a ‘meltdown.’ Some children may have verbal or violent outbursts, while others may ‘shut down’ and withdraw into themselves. It’s important to understand that this is an extreme, subconscious stress response, and is not the same as a tantrum. Should this happen, give the child space to process their feelings, and speak sparingly and calmly. After the meltdown has passed, offer comfort, and give the child an opportunity to discuss their feelings. You might also want to discuss how they can help themselves the next time they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts:
As with any element of childcare, open communication with parents is essential. Discuss their child’s specific needs and effective strategies. By working together, you can provide a consistent and supportive environment that helps the child thrive.
By being aware of sensory sensitivities and making thoughtful adjustments, nannies create a comfortable and supportive environment that allows children to feel safe, secure, and better able to engage with the world around them. With patience, understanding, and proactive strategies, nannies can play a vital role in helping neurodivergent children thrive.
If you’d like further support or advice, you can check out the resources below, or reach out to the team at Koru Kids to speak to one of our in-house support team.
Further resources:
- National Autistic Society – Top 5 autism tips: managing sensory differences and Ten simple sensory strategies for autistic children
- Leicester Partnership NHS Trust – Stimming and autism
- Child Mind Institute – Sensory Processing Issues Explained
- Just One Norfolk – Sensory Overload
- The Seashell Trust: How to Deal With Sensory Overload
