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🧸 Sensory Needs and Gentle Interpretations

A child’s sensory choices can tell you what helped their body feel safer, calmer, or more settled. These interpretations aren’t rules — just gentle possibilities to help you respond with care.

I Need to Move Gently

This may reflect a need for slow, rhythmic movement to regulate the body.

Supportive response: Offer gentle movement options like swaying, stretching, or rocking. Let the child move at their own pace.

I Need Something to Hold

This may signal a need for tactile input, grounding, or emotional comfort.

Supportive response: Provide a soft toy, object, or sensory item to hold. Let the child keep it close without needing to explain.

I Need Soft Things

This may show a need for soothing textures, comfort, or sensory safety.

Supportive response: Offer soft clothing, blankets, or cushions. Avoid scratchy or tight materials — comfort matters.

I Need Quiet

This may express a need for auditory regulation, emotional space, or sensory retreat.

Supportive response: Reduce noise, dim lights, and offer a quiet corner. Honour the need for silence without asking questions.

I Need Less Light

This may reflect a need for visual regulation, sensory retreat, or emotional safety.

Supportive response: Dim lights, close curtains, or offer shaded space. Avoid bright or flickering light — soft environments support calm.

I Need a Sensory Break

This may signal sensory overload, emotional fatigue, or a need to pause from stimulation.

Supportive response: Offer a quiet, low-stimulation space with soft textures or silence. Let the child take time without pressure to return quickly.