When Getting Dressed Is a Battle: Understanding Sensory Triggers

Clothing challenges are so common for kids with sensory sensitivities, and they can be overwhelming for both kids and caregivers. Tags, seams, tight waistbands, crunchy fabrics, new textures, or the feeling of socks not being “just right” can overwhelm a sensitive nervous system. There are lots of OT strategies that can make getting dressed smoother, calmer, and more successful.

Start With What’s Comfortable

Build a wardrobe around textures and styles your child consistently tolerates.

• Soft cotton

• Seamless socks

• Tagless shirts

• Loose waistbands

• Athletic wear/stretchy fabrics

• It’s okay to buy multiples of the “favorite outfit” if possible. Comfort = regulation.

Modify the Clothing, Not the Child

Small adjustments make a big difference:

• Cut tags out

• Turn socks inside out (if seams bother them)

• Use leggings or athletic shorts instead of jeans

Let them wear bike shorts or a tank under clothing for extra comfort
Add Heavy Work Before Getting Dressed

A few minutes of movement can calm the nervous system and make fabrics feel less intense. Proprioceptive input organizes the brain and reduces tactile sensitivity.  Try these:

• Wall push-ups

• Animal walks

• Jumping jacks

• Pushing/pulling a laundry basket of clothes

• Wheelbarrow walks

Prep Clothes So They Feel Softer

Sometimes new clothes just need help.

• Wash new items multiple times

• Air dry instead of using high heat

• Stretch or crinkle stiff fabrics before wearing

Practice clothing tolerance during “neutral” times

Trying new textures or tricky items right before you have to leave the house can lead to big stress for everyone. Instead, build exposure gradually when everyone is calm.
Try things like:

• Wearing socks for 1 minute while dancing to a silly song

• Touching a new fabric with just a fingertip before trying it on

Practicing layers (like a sweatshirt or leggings) during relaxed weekend moments
Start Small & Build Tolerance Slowly

If your child can’t tolerate a certain clothing item (jeans, long sleeves, underwear seams), introduce it in tiny, low-pressure steps. Gradual exposure teaches the brain “this is safe.”

• Look at it
  Touch it with hands
  Touch it to arm/leg

• Wear for 30 seconds → 1 minute → 5 minutes, etc.
  Pair with something fun or regulating.

Offer Choices to Increase Control

Kids do better when they feel a sense of empowerment.
Offer two sensory-friendly options. Giving choices reduces anxiety and resistance.

“Blue joggers or black joggers?”
“Soft long sleeve or short sleeve?”
Keep Mornings Predictable

Build a calm dressing routine with:

• Visual schedule

• Clothing set out the night before

• Sensory break before dressing

• A consistent clothing bin just for approved clothes

Always check in with your child’s OT if you have questions.

At Creating Connections OT, we’re here to help your child thrive—emotionally, physically, and socially. If this post resonated with you and you're wondering what the next step looks like, our New Client Page has everything you need. From what to expect in your first session to how we support your child’s unique goals, it’s all just a click away.