When kids have sensory issues with clothing it can be overwhelming, confusing, and exhausting. Learn why they may have a sensory sensitivity and how you can help them! Plus, ideas for sensory friendly clothing.
I’m standing in the kitchen trying to enjoy the hot coffee that just spit out of my Keurig and I wince when I hear my son, Isaac, crying in the distance. I realize that makes me sound like a horrible uncaring parent, but I know why he’s crying before my foot even hits the first step to see what’s the matter.
Two minutes ago, he had just left the kitchen to get dressed for school, and it’s one of the first colder days of fall. That means he can’t wear shorts.
He hasn’t had a pair of pants on in months.
I was secretly hoping this wasn’t going to be a big deal, but as I climb the stairs, I take a deep breath to brace myself with loads of patience because I know what the scene will be when I open his bedroom door. And, it’s just as I expected. He’s standing there in his underwear, hardly able to talk because he’s crying so hard.
I notice his pant drawer is open and a bunch of pairs are tossed out all over the floor.
I bend down in front of him and tell him to take a deep breath, as I finally understand what he’s repeating through his tears, “I can’t wear pants, I hate the way they feel on my legs.” Any compassion I was previously lacking is now quickly present. I give him a tight hug because he loves that, and then I say, “Don’t worry, we’ll work it out.”
In that moment, I don’t know exactly what the solution is, but I’ve got some ideas!
Does my Child Have Sensory Issues with Clothing?
This story about my son and I may sound all too familiar to you. The fact is that a lot of kids are particular about what kinds of clothing they wear. It could be their socks, pants, or a preference to wear no clothing at all!
This is quite different than the child that refuses to wear anything other than blue or to always be in a dress because they like to twirl.
What I’m talking about is way more than a style preference. Instead, it’s about refusing to wear clothing based on the way it feels. If your child is demanding to wear or not wear certain clothing because of a seam, particular fit, or type of fabric, then it’s likely because of their sensory system. Some might say they have sensory issues with clothing.
Now don’t hit the panic button because that sounds kind of scary, but actually, this is quite normal and doesn’t necessarily mean that your child has something “wrong” with them.
Why Kids Have Sensory Issues with Clothing…
Each of us and every kid has a unique sensory system. We each have sensations that we like, don’t notice, and avoid. Some kids have more of those preferences than others. This all depends on their own individual brain, which is why it varies so much from person to person. Sensory issues with clothing become a concern when they start to interfere with a child’s ability to function in daily life. (Head over to “What is Sensory?” to learn more)
In these cases, a child may have Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), or other diagnoses like ADHD or Autism.
But lots of kids, like my son, have a sensory sensitivity to certain types of textures and no diagnosis. Sensory issues with clothing are specifically related to our sense of touch or the tactile system. (Read more about the tactile sense) For Isaac, his brain is getting so many signals that the pants are on his legs, that it’s hard for him to focus on anything else. He perceives this as uncomfortable and begins to cry at the thought of wearing those pants.
Most kids that have sensory issues with clothing will often react this way. In fact, it could even be full-out tantrums and total fits over a pair of socks.
As parents, it’s frustrating and exhausting. It can also be hard to understand why they can’t just put the pants on. We may even force them to. But, our kids are literally yelling out because those pants might be downright painful. They aren’t being bad when they refuse to wear jeans, socks, or whatever, it’s simply how their brain works, and they don’t quite know how to put that into words.
Also, many kids that have sensory issues with clothing also don’t like to get messy or are particular about what they will touch and perhaps even eat. That’s because all of those activities are related to the tactile sense. If you see your child having a general sensitivity, head to everything about sensory sensitivity to learn more. If you’re child hates putting on sunscreen we also have tips for managing that in our 8 Quick Tips for Kids that Hate Getting Sunscreen Put On.
Affiliate links used below. See our full disclosure.
What Should You Do About Sensory Issues with Clothing?
Let’s talk about the basics because this is where we should all start when we’re facing a child’s sensory issue with clothing. And honestly, just having this simple plan will give you a lot of peace and knock the frustration level down a few pegs because you’ll have a plan that you can start right now.
1. Try to understand – Sounds like a small detail, but don’t overlook this step because this is what helps us keep our sanity. When you find yourself getting frustrated or exhausted by your kid’s sensory issues with clothing, try to imagine how uncomfortable it must be for them. The added benefit to this is that over time, your kid will notice your understanding and start to communicate better because they know you get it and are there for them. It’s pretty cool when that happens.
2. Don’t Force – Oh so tempting, but forcing a pair of socks, pants, or fancy lacy dress can have a pretty detrimental effect on their sensory system, making matters only worse. Not to mention that they are going to fight you more in the future because they’ll think you don’t get it and aren’t there to help.
3. Allow for extra time – This is a hard one for me, I always push everything to the last minute, but when you know your child has sensory issues with clothing, this can be a total game changer. One thing I didn’t mention earlier is that kid’s sensory systems are always in fluctuation, which means that what bothers them one day might not the next. For some kids, it can be hard to predict when they’re going to have a total meltdown over the jeans. Having that extra time to work through it might be exactly what you need.
4. Offer Choices – As soon as kids feel like they have some control over what their body experiences, they are more willing to push themselves out of their comfort zone. If possible, give them two pairs of pants to choose from, ideally of different textures or fit. If they aren’t sure, you can talk about the differences, “You can choose the black pants with no buttons, or these jeans with a zipper and snap. Which would you like to wear today?”
5. Think sensory friendly clothing – While every child is unique, by in large, most sensory issues with clothing are because of seams in socks or pants, or a strong preference for comfortable clothing like sweatpants. Although some kids prefer tight-fitting clothing, as well. Notice what your child seems to complain about or gravitate towards.
For Issac, he particularly dislikes jeans and any pants that have buttons or the hidden adjustable waistband. I know exactly what bothers him, so in his case, having elastic waist comfortable pants would be helpful. It may be different for your child.
Here are a few examples of sensory friendly clothing:
6. Use a time limit – Isaac also hates, probably more than jeans, button-down shirts. I ask him to wear these to church sometimes, which is really challenging for him. He’ll often concede if he knows he can take it off as soon as we get back home. If you have a special outfit you want your child to wear, then telling them when they get to take it off will help.
7. Get more help – If you try all of the above steps and can’t seem to get past the daily battle about what clothes your child is going to wear, I’d recommend a sensory evaluation with an occupational therapist, which could be tremendously helpful for you and your child. Head over to sensory integration therapy to learn more.
How to Get Over Sensory Issues with Clothing
As an OT, I love strategies to help us get through challenges with our kids, like those listed above, but what I love even more is to get to the root of the problem. Let’s uncover the best ways to help your child improve the way they process sensory information about their clothing, that decreases their tactile defensiveness.
1. Wilbarger Brushing Protocol – Frequently referred to as “brushing”, and as strange as it sounds, is taking a specific brush (looks like a surgical brush) and with a firm pressure, taking 2 minutes to firmly rub it all over your child’s back, arms, and legs. While this is very easy, it’s copyright states that it can only be taught in person by an occupational therapist that’s been certified to do so.
The good news is the majority of pediatric OT’s have this certification or training. If your child is already in OT and they have sensory issues with clothing or other signs of tactile defensiveness, ask the OT about it!
2. Sensory Bins – Again, this may sound surprising or even strange, but if your child regularly plays in different textures (think: sand, dry rice, shaving cream, finger paints, etc.) their tactile system can greatly improve and the sensory issues with clothing can all but disappear. I’ve certainly seen this happen with Isaac over time! Head over to Sensory Bin Ideas to get organized.
And, I’m not the only one that sees these changes, check out this post from my free help for picky eating facebook group:
3. Repeated Exposure – Although we don’t want to force, it’s helpful to encourage them to try, especially if it’s a clothing that can’t be worked around. Try small doses at home and build up your time.
4. Firm Pressure – When your child does push through their sensory issues with clothing and they are still a bit uncomfortable, a little bit of firm pressure goes a long way because for a lot of kids it’s very calming to their sensory system. You can give firm pressure by:
- Hugging them (if they like hugs!)
- Squeezing their hand or wrapping your hands around their forearms and giving a firm squeeze
- Pushing down on the tops of their shoulders
5. Use a Sensory Diet – Lots of times, if a child has sensory issues with clothing, they likely have some sensory issues in some other aspect of their life. Isaac is also very wild and while he’s sensitive to certain textures with his tactile system, he craves and seeks out other sensations like proprioceptive and vestibular input. When I give him a chance to get his sensory system balanced through certain activities, his refusal to wear certain types of clothing diminishes.
Check out this sensory diet template to learn more about how to set a sensory diet up for your child.
Finding the Solution That Works for You and Your Child
The morning that I walked into Isaac’s room a few months ago, wouldn’t be the last like it, but on that day and other days since, I’ve used a combination of all the strategies you just read about. I pulled out two of his most comfortable pants to choose from, helped him put them on, and then firmly rubbed his legs right away.
Fortunately, he quickly got over wearing pants but, we do have frequent conversations and negotiations around which days he’ll wear jeans. Together, we also search for the softest jeans in his drawer and usually pick out a shirt he really likes.
However, believe me when I say that I know full well that this may be too big of a step for your child. For you, it may mean letting your child wear shorts, even in the winter, as you work through their sensory issues with clothing. Or, your solution could be stocking their closet with tight performance fit clothing because it’s one less battle you have to have, and you notice that they’re way more chill when they have it on anyways.
Get More Help, NOW!
If you’d like to learn more about how to help your child with their sensory difficulties, then join me in the free workshop: 3 Expert Secrets to Calm and Focus Your Child with Specialized Sensory Activities!
CLICK HERE TO GET A FREE SEAT!
More on Kid’s Sensory Issues
Epic Messy Play List that’s Sensory-filled, Inspiring, and Easy!
60 Printable Sensory Diet Cards for Kids to Thrive
100+ Awesome and Easy Sensory Diet Activities
What is a Sensory Diet: Does My Child Need One?
Did You Pin This?
So much info here, it’ll be hard to remember it all. Pin it to your parenting or sensory board for safe keeping:)
Alisha Grogan is a licensed occupational therapist and founder of Your Kid’s Table. She has over 14 years experience with expertise in sensory processing and feeding development in babies, toddlers, and children. Alisha also has 3 boys of her own at home. Learn more about her here.
Hello,
Thank you for this article. My son has no other sensory sensitivities other than clothing. It started after potty training at 2.5 yrs old – his daycare would only allow crocs for easy clean-up and he refused to wear any other shoe after that. Then it was a problem with socks, then jeans, then cargo pants, then swim trunks. Now, at almost 5 years old, it is t-shirts. Every morning is a nightmare. He cannot stand to wear anything. Everything bothers him, he says is doesn’t hurt or tickle. I set a timer and tell him that if the clothes don’t feel fine after 2 minutes, he can remove them. That works almost always. If it is sensory, why is it that after a few minutes he says it no longer bothers him and he is comfortable? Tags were a huge issue before, now he can tolerate them and doesn’t ask me to cut them off. We have tried OT, skin brushing and sensory bins – nothing helps. Could this be behavioral, like his pediatrician suspects? Or OCD? His last therapist was not convinced it was SPD.
Thank You!
Hi Emily,
Thanks for reaching out! Difficulties with wearing clothes can be such a challenge! It can still be a sensory discomfort even if it is only initially a problem. You might try the brushing before putting on the clothes. That can help get him ready for clothes! We have a sensory diet template, you can try a few different ideas and see what works best! It would also be worth exploring other possible reasons for his sensitivity with his pedi!
Best,
Andrea
I am so glad I came across this. My daughter is a very strong minded 2 year old we’ve always just considered her very defiant and strong willed. She’s always a wild child and prefers to to be unclothed but lately it has been getting a lot more than I just don’t want to wear clothes. She now refuses to wear a nappy which is fine as shes toilet trained just not at night which is a pain. She refuses to wear any knickers I’ve tried boxers, shorts everything but I can see the frustration in her face and I’ve noticed whenever she wears any bottoms she’s just so unbelievably uncomfortable because she’s constantly pulling at them as I can tell she doesn’t like the feeling of them touching her. She hates wearing pyjamas so I let her just wear nothing and I’m never sure if I’m just making it worse by giving in but I can’t stand watching her squirm it breaks my heart. As a baby she always hated onesies with feet or even socks so i always had to make sure they were footless onesies. She’s always loved gumboots so will happily wear just gumboots and that’s it!! The older she has gotten it’s like more items of clothing I’ve had to add to the list of not buying. She never has a problem with getting messy because that’s all she loves to do she will lather herself in cream, paint herself top to bottom make mud pies but the clothing issue has just always been a problem and I’ve just thought of her as a wild spirit until lately. I began to notice how uncomfortable she looked constantly pulling at her clothes like they’re suffocating her. She’s ok when it comes to going out she will put something on but will still be squirming non stop. As soon as we walk in the door everything comes off and she’s happy again. Just wish I could help her!!!
Hi Lisa,
We’re so glad that you’re here! It can be a challenge when our kiddos refuse to wear clothing. You might try working with her to slowly overcome her tactile sensory discomfort. We love sensory bins for that! They’re pretty easy to put together and adding in some favorite toys can make them more appealing to kids. Check out our sensory bins post for lots of ideas!
Best,
Andrea
Thank you so much for this write up. I’ve been beside myself for months! Since about 2 months after the birth of my second child my first, who is almost 5, started having issues with clothes. She has always been one that pulled her pants up as high as she could get them and I never really thought anything of it, but since the intense onset of her issues I think this has been a problem for a long time. She complains that her panties always feel like they are falling down (I promise they are not). I thought maybe she could t process the difference in the location of the panties waist band and the pants waist band. So I found panties with a higher rise. Then those went through the wash and shrunk a bit so then those felt like they were falling down. Also, all pants and shorts (no matter the cut, fabric, style) feel like they are falling down. We even tried overall shorts. She said she liked them and did well for a day, but now won’t even think of putting them on again. I recently bought new panties 1 size too big. She said they felt great! I said I’ll let them air dry so they won’t shrink…she has like 10 pair in her drawer that have never been worn and she has starte complaining about them now. EVERYYHING feels like it’s falling down. I’ve spent $50 on so many different socks. She has 3 pair that she calls “hard socks” that she is about to grow out of but they are the only ones she will wear – and of course I can’t but them from Hanes anymore and they don’t have anything similar. Everything is is “soft socks”. She used to love her shoes but now “they don’t feel right”. She asked me to cut all of her shirts short because they are too long…it’s like anything that sits lower than her pull up or panty line is too long and “will make her panties fall down”. She has 1 shirt that’s she calls her cozy shirt but it’s almost too small…and of course I can’t get another form Cat and a Jack. I’ve tried tighter fitting clothes and she doesn’t like that. About the July thing she will wear is a dress but she wants to take her panties off when she gets home.
She only has theses outward issues at home. Daycare says she never seems to have any issues.
My
Last ditch effort is high waisted panties from Hanna Andersson- fingers crossed.
We have reached out to an OT but they have a wait list and can’t see her for 3 months. 🙁 Her pediatrician said she has no concerns of autism or ADHD.
Hi Erica,
That sounds so frustrating for you! Trouble with clothing is a common problem for a lot of kids! Keep rotating the clothes she does wear. If she tolerates other clothing during daycare, then that is a great place to encourage her to wear new clothes. We also have a post that addresses tactile sensitivity. It also gives you some more ideas of how to decrease the sensitivity. I hope that helps get you started!
Best,
Andrea
Hi my 11 year old started Middle school. She got her period and her body developed so she NEEDS to wear a bra. I have tried everything texture, style and color of training bra it’s going on 1 year now but she will not wear it. She is ADHD and ODD and has many sensory problems. She has been in therapy since she was 3 but right before COVID her therapist felt she had matured and was able to work through the problems on her own. She has always had sensory issues with Clothing, 2 years absolutely no shorts or t shirts, then 2 years shorts and t shirts, wore jeans And dresses all her life and now absolutely no dresses or jeans, she says the dresses are itchy no matter how soft and itch free we get them, she says the jeans are too tight, she loved the tights from Gap, OLd Navy, Justice etc now refuses to wear them so now we are in an only sweat pants and hoodie wearing phase, my concern is that Spring is here and summer is right around the corner and. She has had issues with fainting when she is is too overdressed for these seasons. I have tried all the above steps plus letting her to go stores and feeling out the textures. We just went to a mall this weekend for a big shopping trip and she came back with one cotton t shirt. Did I mention that she also hates bright colors now and only picks out dark colors. You can see my dilemma. HELP PLEASE.
Hey Gisele,
So sorry to hear you/your daughter are going through this, we know how hard it can be! If you haven’t had an OT walk you through and complete brushing protocol, I’d reach out to her OT to see if they can review that with you to try. It can really be a powerful tool in moving forward with clothing.
Hope that helps!
Best,
Desiree
When I was her age I was very similar. Ultimately tight fitting undershirts solved most of my issues. Since they were tight I never felt anything move over my skin like side seams or tags. They may also help get her wearing a bra. The camisoles I wear have a shelf bra in them. I also don’t like bras with a large piece of fabric between them. Best of luck to you.
I have a 3 yr old she will be 4 in march and she wont wear anything at all! Only if I day we are going to the park she will let me dress her but I have to go straight out the door or she will start to freak out she is autistic iam still learning about it she dont talk only once in a great while she will say sissy or mom or dad or shrek or onnah or 1 2 then when we get home she takes her cloths off she will sit in ice cold water and it dont bug her it’s so strange idk but she has to start preschool and iam so scared!
Thanks for reaching out and sharing your story. We understand how hard this can be! I’d follow with the steps in the article. However if you can find and OT close to you that could be really beneficial. They can go over the brushing protocol with you which can be extremely helpful for some kids with regards to clothing.
Best,
Desiree
My daughter is seven and I started noticing her sensory issues with clothing when she was about 4 and we had to get clothes on and ready for preschool. She recently got diagnosed with ADHD also. It’s still to this day a struggle to get her to wear any clothes. She wears as little clothes as possible when she’s home. She most nights sleeps naked. She hasn’t wore underwear since she was 4 probably. She can’t wear any of the 50 types I’ve bought her to try, so I just gave up. She hates socks. She hates long sleeves shirts. She hates sweat pants now. One day she was ok with them, next day, after I bought three pairs for her, she hates them! Now that she has to wear a sports bra for cheer or for some shirts, that’s an issue. She hates jeans. Any pants with adjustable straps has always been an no. Sweaters are a no. Sweat shirts are a no. If jackets or anything are too tight around her wrist, it’s a no. Jackets are an ordeal also. She’d wear basketball shorts and tank tops with flip flops every day if I’d let her. Even in the snow! It all changes daily so it’s very frustrating. I try to buy her things I know she’s ok with. I try to be understanding and flexible, but I do some days force her to wear things. I have to! She wouldn’t leave the house if I didn’t.
Hi there. I’m a fully functioning adult with ADHD, sensory sensitivities, a husband of 12 years, and I work at an ivy league university. I thought I’d share what it’s like for me to wear things that trigger my sensitivities. I have physical and emotional reactions to specific fabrics and cuts of clothing. No crew necks, 3/4 sleeves, turtle necks, or dolman sleeves. Nothing tight. No thick seams touching skin. No wool, polyester, rayon, fleece, or any other fabric that can be itchy or not breathable. I stick to cotton, modal, silk, and sometimes linen if it’s soft enough. I wear a lot of blazers, cardigans, v-neck blouses and shells, knee length skirts (not pencil), slacks (with some stretch), and slouchy boyfriend cut jeans or sweatpants with v-neck t’s or sweatshirts on the weekend. I have a few 100% cotton sweaters I love. NO BUTTON DOWNS. God will understand if your kid can’s wear button downs. I stopped wearing them shortly after getting a job that required business formal attire. I can’t function when I wear them. Even custom made. I had a $200 button down I gave to a friend because I CANNOT WEAR THEM. When I put it on, all I can think about is how the collar touches my neck, the fron seam touches my stomach and chest. It’s awful. The custom shirt even had hidden buttons to make sure it didn’t pull or move weird over my chest. For neurotypical people, it would be like wearing clothes that are so tight you can barely get them on. I’m talking three sizes too small. Like they may rip a bit when you move. THAT is how difficult it is for some of us to wear certain fabrics or cuts of clothing. So, please don’t make your kiddos wear stuff they tell you bothers them. They want you to love them and be proud of them. Most of us want to fit in and look “normal”. And we can, but we need the support and ACCEPTANCE of our care takers to do that. I will be forever greatful for my folks letting me wear sweats 24/7 in elementary school. I did often add a tutu just for fun. You love your kids. Don’t make them wear button downs or whatever bothers them. You’re not spoiling them. You’re helping them. I found ways to look pretty awesome w/out triggering my sensitivities. You and your kids can, too.
So helpful to hear this, thank you for taking the time to share you feeling and experiences. Xx
So helpful thank you for your perspective. I’m just learning this thing I thought was just my 9-year-olds personality is actually pretty common. I’m glad that, for the most part, I haven’t forced her. Among many things, She will NOT wear jeans and she will just wear thicker soft leggings in the winter. There are many options out there clothing wise. I just take her with me shopping for her clothes. It’s fascinating. Before she even considers what a piece looks like, she walks down the isles putting her hand inside each piece! Checking if it’s “itchy” or at all a feeling she doesn’t like. She is also very particular that her hair be in a pony tail. I’m not sure if this is because of how it feels on her neck but that’s what I suspect.
Hi Susan,
It sounds like you’re on the right track with your daughter! We have another article on the tactile sense. It has some different activity ideas as well. It might be helpful to you!
Best,
Andrea
Omg everything youhave said exactly describs what my 6 year old isgoing through. Its been about 3 months now and getting worse. The biggest problem is pants and socks. Shes had a few phases, ‘only ling sleeved t-shirts now only short sleeved ones’, but shes exactly in this stage with every item you described. Our biggest problem isits costing us a fortu e in clothes we buy and cant return and its stopping her from being able to take part in sports, that she wants to do.
Can anyone reccomend any knee high seamless socks for 6 year olds. I cant find any ‘sensory’ ones for her age. Also she wants waist high, long down the leg seamless boxers, size 116cm. The only thing i can find to compareis Ballet clothing, but its so expensive! Does anyone have the same issue/what clothing are you using?
I’d be so grateful for any advise/recommendations. 🙂
Our 10 year old son just hates wearing winter uniform to school. Hates wearing pants & longsleeve shirts however it’s a compulsory school uniform. How can we help him deal with this better – some mornings he refuses to go to school – also has to sleep with his wardrobe door slightly open & puts shorts & tshirt on the minute he gets home & wears shorts & t-shirt all year around.
Has been getting worse the older he gets. Please help suggest some ideas
hey Clare,
Thanks for reaching out! I’d still utilize the suggestions in the post listed under “How to get over sensory issues with clothing” in looking at completing sensory bins, brushing protocol, deep pressure etc… It will take some trial and error and some time to find what will be helpful for him.
Best,
Desiree
i found a wonderful undershirt on amazon that is completely seam free and my daughter wears it under everything during the winter. Wintertime seems to be our challenge. on amazon….
Nasse Girls Short Sleeve Modal Soft Tee Crew Neck T-Shirts /Free-Cut Undershirts (M, Light pink)
NASSE
Hi Clare!
If it is a uniform you’re worried about, it may help to reassure your son that he’s allowed to take it off as soon as he gets home. I also recommend talking with his school about his sensory issues with the uniform and how it can be adjusted so he’s more comfortable and willing to attend school. Make sure to make it clear that his concerns are not from a place of rebellion, but rather a place of distress as wearing the uniform could be physically painful.
Ask your son what he thinks may help, and involve him in the process. This will make sure he knows you want to help, and no one knows how he feels better than him.
I am currently going through these issues with my almost 5 year old daughter. Every morning is a fight. The issues started when she was around 3 with pants. She would say they were not cozy or they were too tight. We would stretch them out & sort of make a game of it and for a time it worked. Then her sensitivities progressed to shoes, jackets, socks and as of last winter shirts too. I buy only super soft materials (polyester spandex blend usually) that are slightly big on her. Some days she’s ok or only whines about her socks or shoes. Other days nothing is “cozy” and she dissolves into tears. I can tell that she’s really pained by these sensitivities and I’m trying to work with her but it just doesn’t feel like anything works. I bought her a whole bunch of super soft dresses for when the weather warms up but she will still need to wear shorts underneath since still she doesn’t quite know how to wear a dress without flashing her underwear. Recently I think I’ve figured out that it’s the seam along the crotch area that bothers her the most, but it’s not possible to buy any type of bottom without some type of seam there. I’ll have her try new clothes on & she’ll say that she likes them, but then after removing the tags & washing them she refuses to wear it. I will have her pick out her own clothes, but even then she’s not happy. I’m honestly at my wits end. We’re spending a fortune on clothing that doesn’t get used & every morning is just absolutely draining. I’m hoping that she grows out of this phase or learns to cope with the issues better, but for now I don’t feel like I have any real options.
Hi Nicole,
That sounds like clothing is such a challenge for your daughter! That can be so tough! You might try focusing on some tactile sensory activities like working with sensory bins. We also have a post on other ideas to address the tactile sensory system. It is full of ideas that might be helpful for you!
Best,
Andrea
Great article! I’m a 60-year old guy and I suffered massively as a child because no-one understood what I felt when I had to wear the woolly trousers/pants that were common in those days.
In my case, nothing has changed; even the thought of having to wear jeans for example, can make me panic.
If I do have to wear trousers, they have to be thin cotton ones with no discernable seams, or anything that’s really soft, like fleece.
I’m really lucky that I’m wearing a uniform with cotton trousers that are just soft enough if I wash them a couple of times before wearing them when they’re new!
I’m really glad to see there’s more understanding about this issue nowadays.
Hi there
I’m just coming to learn that my six year old sons issues with clothing are actually a real distressing thing. I’m interested to ask someone like you, who knows , could you describe why clothing is so bad ? I mean is it painful? His issues have exploded and now its impossible to get him dressed. . Any underwear feel like they are going up his bottom, cant find any to fit, socks that are a tiny bit baggy are a no go , t shirts feel too wide round the neck, trousers are a no go. Its hard to understand but hearing your perspective as an older man looking back really makes me think i need to really help him.
Thanks for reaching out and glad that you are trying to understand what he is going through. So the signals that he is receiving from the clothing is that they are extremely uncomfortable. It’s hard for him to focus on anything else because they can’t stop that uncomfortable feeling. I’d try to focus on the tips on the articles and see which ones may help!
Best,
Desiree
Josie, I recently read this article and saw your question, “Could you describe why clothing is so bad ? I mean is it painful?” I would like to try to answer it. As a bit of background, I am 29 years old and had similar sensitivities to your son growing up. I still have some of them, though I have found work-arounds for most problems. Socks drove my parents nuts growing up. They were too tight, too loose, or the seam was in the wrong place. Shirts with tags were awful, underwear was a bit of a problem, and I hated bras with a passion (I stick with the sport variety whenever I can help it). I also am not a fan of shirts with tight sleeves. You asked if these things hurt. My personal answer to that is no. I would compare it to more of a mosquito bite. A really big, annoying mosquito bite. A bug bite doesn’t itch all the time, but if you brush it against something or accidentally scratch it, it suddenly comes to the front of your mind and then it won’t. Stop. Itching. And the more you worry at it, the worse it gets. If you can force yourself not to scratch and to focus on something else, it will eventually stop bothering you for a while. However, have you ever known a kid that has the will-power to stop thinking about or scratching at a bug bite? I certainly couldn’t. The thing about bug bites is the fact that you know it will disappear and that you only have to put up with it for a few days. If you knew that the mosquito bite would never disappear and that you would have to put up with it for the rest of your life, you would probably be in tears, too. Socks are, unfortunately, a “rest of your life” type of problem 🙂 Hopefully, this helps to understand your son a little more. Everyone’s mind is different, so his reactions may be different from mine, but perhaps this perspective will help you work with him a bit more. I hope all of this article’s tips helped, but I will add one more tip of my own for years down the road: adult clothes are so much more comfortable than clothes made for kids. Kids grow out of stuff in a year, so there is no point in making them the best fit, material, seams, etc. This won’t help you immediately, but keep it in mind for the future. Good luck!
Thank so much Sarah for sharing. It’s always great to hear the perspective of someone who’s been there!
Best,
Desiree
Thank you so much for this. I’ve had concerns for sometime that my daughter has sensory issues around clothes. Your description of how it feels has really helped. I now know I need to adjust my approach to getting out of the door to school in the morning.
Great Kate! so happy you found our article!
Best,
Desiree
Thank you so much for sharing with us! We know how hard that must of been for you, but glad you are able to find what makes you comfortable. And we are so happy there is more understand to help these kids manage and get through!
Best,
Desiree
Thank you for taking time to write on this subject. My daughter (10) will only wear seamless, plain leggings. It took me many years of tantrums to finally realize that she wasn’t just being difficult. Now, I take her shopping at the local second hand store. Since many of the leggings have already been worn, they seem to be more comfortable for her. She has a routine for trying on leggings. After she puts them on, she touches her toes, sits criss-cross applesauce and then does a leg extension (basically the splits where she is standing with one foot on the ground while the other foot is above her head. She has Ehlors-Danlos Syndrome and is a dancer which makes her very flexible). Sometimes when she is getting dressed at home, she will end up not liking a pair or two but now she knows that she has a whole drawer full of other leggings that she knows will feel okay. Prior to going to the second hand store, I spent a ridiculous amount of money on trying to find clothing that she would wear! Shoes and socks are still an issue. It takes hours to find a pair of tennis shoes that feel okay for her to wear. She also has ADHD and we just recently started her on Strattera since she was beginning to have difficulty in school. She also had an IEP in Preschool for speech and OT as she had some stubborn primitive reflexes that did not want to go away.
Thanks so much for sharing your story with us. So glad that you have found what works for you and your daughter together!! Keep up the great work!
Best,
Desiree
My son is almost 13 and ive fought this battle since he was a toddler it started as the shoes he will wear only high tops and they have to feel tight then the pants for the ages 3-10 he would only wear sweats and basket ball shorts now he will only wear jeans and the jeans have to feel a certain way its accompanies also some OCD where he only wants to wear that same pair of jeans everyday and ive battled and battled shirts cant be to small for xmas i bought him long sleeve shirts and his comment upon looking at them were hope the sleeves are not tight because they have the smaller opening at the wrist. He mentally gets so fixated on what he wants to wear and makes it almost impossible to accommodate ive said he cant be this picky its not realistic at all. He has been diagnosed with ADHD since age 4 and ive been very successful at raising him as if he does not have a learning disability hes done excellent in school until he hit 7th grade this year its been rough. But I literally loose sleep at night just worrying about what i will encounter in the morning will it go smooth or will we have a pile of clothes on the floor because nothing fits right. How do we approach this for a teen?
Hey Kim,
I totally get it and sorry you are left at night worrying about how the morning will go! The tips in the article on how to get over the sensitivity would still ring true for a teenager, the deep pressure activities would just look a little differently. The main thing that I’ve seen help with kids as mentioned in the article is the Wilbarger brushing protocol. I’d recommend seeking out an occupational therapy evaluation (looking for someone with more background in sensory integration can be helpful) but most all therapists are trained on the “brushing technique”. They can teach you how to complete this properly with demonstration and hands on practice. In the meantime I’d click through the sensory diet section to understand and see if there is anything that you can add to your morning routine.
Best,
Desiree
Don’t force your child to wear anything…
Let him feel the textures of the clothes around the shop.
I have to feel all the clothes around the shop and if I don’t like the matieral I simply will not buy… Wearing an item of clothing that I can’t bare dose not just feel uncomfortable it burns my skin, it itches, its makes my teeth itch, the thought of it makes me feel physically sick!
Any article that tells you to pressure your kid in to wearing it should be throw out.
These fabrics physically hurt us! It is absolute tourture for us to endure it.
It dosnt get better in time.. I’ve had 28 years of time and I still feel the burning pain of cheap matieral.
Let him choose his own matierals. I love the look of jeans but I can’t stand the feel of them, they make me feel sick so I wear leggings under jeans and that way I can’t feel the jeans on my legs. Higher quality jeans do feel better but are alot more expensive… If there’s a top I really like but I can’t stand the matieral I put a think cotton or Jersey top under it…. The same with dresses… You can’t really do this in the middle of summer so compromise…
Hello Alisha,
I think my daughter has sensory issues that may be related to early neglect by her biological parents. She came to live with me at 7 months and to my knowledge, she spent the first 7 months of her life strapped in a car seat most of the time. She has major meltdowns if there is any thing tight or restraining in her torso area. Lately it has been a battle of the bra. Almost every day for a month she has a meltdown about having to wear a bra. She says it hurts and itches and such. I have tried to be compassionate on her sensitivities in the past by allowing her to wear leggings, loose fitting clothes and such but unfortunately she is developing and a bra is non negotiable. She recently had her 10 yr old well check and I requested that an OT referral be made.
I was wandering if sensory therapy can help if even it is possibly a subconscious thing related to her being strapped in the car seat.
Hi Shelly,
Thanks for reaching out and sharing your story with us! Yes, OT evaluation/treatment working on sensory processing can help! They should be able to help you navigate through the sensory processing and provide activities that can help. If you want to understand more about sensory processing, we do off a free workshop! You can Save Your Seat Here
Best,
Desiree
Hi Shelly, I am 29 and I had/have sensory problems with tags, socks, tight clothing, etc. I hated bras, especially as a teen. Have you tried sports bras? They really helped me. They don’t have hooks, are completely stretchy, and don’t have stitching in all of the wrong and itchy places. If she needs more support, I had a gymnast friend who wore 2 on top of each other and said that it worked well. I always shop for shirts and dresses that fit over them and I rarely have a problem. Also, try buying normal bras from the women’s section instead of the girl’s if you aren’t already. Kid’s clothes aren’t made as well since they only need to last a year before you need a larger size. Adult bras are much more comfortable and seem to be made more like sport’s bra’s each year. I hope this helps. Good luck!
I am wondering if anyone has insight as to whether or not the issues with clothing sensitivity could be a result of other stressors? It seems like these issues are only sometimes for my son (6 1/2). It seems like it may be about him being anxious or worried about something else and then it manifests as him not liking how his clothing feels. It’s worse if he’s overtired, hungry, or worried about something at school. He can go long periods of time without any issues with his clothing at all. The issues with how his clothing feel seemed to have started at the same time he started having some issues at school last year with some unkind students and a teacher who didn’t see what was going on. I am going to try some of the sensory bin ideas for him, but also want to make sure that I may not be ignoring a deeper issue that may be bothering him, with the clothing sensitivity being a symptom not the cause.
Hey Shelley,
Thanks for reaching out. A lot of times the sensory can “come out” due to anxiety, which is most likely why you are seeing that connection. I would still try the sensory activities as this should be helpful. I would also look into making sure there are not other stressors going on as well.
Best,
Desiree
Hi,
My daughter, 3 years, has always been complicated with clothes, but we’ve had two crisis, when we started potty training and now that we took her pacifier away. And also when she is overtired it is really difficult.
I went to an OT and she could not diagnose her with anything. So I think she is just more sensible.
Hello, I’m seeking information on a child I care for in my daycare centre whom has major sensitivity to clothes and we are fast approaching the winter months and am wondering how to go about winter clothes as we are on a more tighter time frame. I would appreciate any helpful info for this sweet little girl. Thank you
Hey Kristin,
I’d try the suggestions in the article. This is often hard for kids with clothing sensitivity switching of months as the clothing is different. But the suggestions should help!
Best,
Desiree
My student doesn’t keep any clothes or diaper on, he rips them off and rips the bed linens off, also he rips other kids clothing aswell. Most time I have to restrain him.
Any information you give would be greatly appreciated.
Hey Fayona,
Sorry you are dealing with this. It does sound like it could be sensory related! Other than suggestions in the article we do have a free workshop that goes over sensory ideas/explanation that might help guide you! You can save your seat HERE
Best,
Desiree
Hello ,
I see this post is of 2019 …I am reading this on 24Dec 2020.Please let me know what solution did you found for this child on this.I hope and pray this and every child is doing good.
Same thing is going with me now just the same you mentioned about in this post.
my 2yrs old
Dont like diapers,no pants ,no shirt no quilt or bedsheet even if we go in cover like if we are feeling cold if we pullover somthing even he tries to take it away…
please help…
Thank you
So sorry you are dealing with this. Hopefully you found some great suggestions in the article. I’d walk through those and see if anything is helping. It can take some time to work through this. Finding an occupational therapist to teach you the Wilbarger brushing can also be helpful (as mentioned in the article).
Best,
Desiree
Hi there! You guys are not alone! I, however, with the help of my cousins advice am just now learning about tactile sensitivities. My youngest just started kindergarten and I’d been having terrible anxiety leading up to the first day of school. It has been a fight every.single.morning…she doesn’t want to wear washed clothes (fixed that with different laundry detergent/no fabric softener) she doesn’t like soft clothes, baggy clothes, jeans, certain socks, underwear, or shirts that the neckline practically isn’t choking her! It is a fight everyday! Any advice would greatly be appreciated. 💕
Thank you
Hey Beth,
I know this can be hard on you, as you only want what is best!! I’d try the recommendations in the post, but if you feel you need more suggestions reaching out for an OT evaluation can be helpful!! They can show you some hands on activities that can be helpful for clothing!
Best,
Desiree
I have the exact same problem with my son. He was really bad at age 4-5. He’s now 9. One thing that really helped is that after his bath in the evening, he puts on what he will wear to school the next day. This has given us more time to let him pick out the most comfortable for him. I also let him wear shorts all the time unless he wants to wear pants. I guess it helps that we live in California because it doesn’t get super cold but we still have our freezing days.
I could completely relate to the author’s story. I could even picture myself cringing with the description of the crying. I had no idea that there are ways to help. I’m starting this week! Thanks for article.
Your welcome Beth, we know how hard this can be. Glad you are finding some ideas for help!! But also looking at what works best for your son. Hope these help and keep us posted!
Best,
Desiree
My child does not like to wear constrictive clothing for example underwear, bathing suits, shirt with elastic on the sleeves. What can I doe to help.
Use some of tips mentioned in the post above to start to address some of the issues.
I haven’t read this full article yet, but I could burst into tears, I don’t know if that’s through relief or guilt. My 4 year old, for the last year has become very particular about what she wears, I couldn’t understand it because it would fluxuate, one day it’s shoes, then socks, jeans, not wanting coats zipped up, nothing round her waste – even loosely! Every morning is a battle! And because she would wear it one day and not the next I felt it was just her being awkward. But after reading 30% of this article I can see how wrong Iv been! It’s like someone’s summed up my experience with her. I knew deep down the level of frustration she had wasn’t normal, she is very strong willed but it was beyond that. because of the pressure rushed mornings I have been handling it all wrong. I’m going to have a good read and hopefully pick my little one up today with a better ability to help her through these sensitivities.
Thank you so much.
That’s so good Michelle! I’m so happy so found us!
Wow! This was very helpful im just now stepping into this with my 14 yr old daughter tags have always bugged her and seems but we have been able to move thru it until this morning where it was an all over body feeling that she was just uncomfortable and everything made her itchy! reading this has brought alot of understanding learning and comfort as well as sifting thru and reading some of the comments thankyou for sharing !!!
Awesome Nicole,
So glad you found this article and able to understand a little more. Hopefully the tips in the article will help you!
Best,
Desiree
My son has been the same for the last number of years, one day his clothes are damp and can’t wear them, next day is fine, next day his shoes are too tight or loose and the next it’s the opposite, I have always been very hard on him and watched him in total meltdown mode over these issues and then the green eyed monster comes out in me through pure frustration and not understanding and I would force the clothes/shoes/football boots on him with little regard to how it makes him feel. Now I feel I have some understanding to him bad behaviour, thank you for helping me to understand.
My 5 1/2 yr old daughter has had
This for 3+ years. No other sensory issues, will happily wear any swimsuit if it’s pretty etc. We gave up on underwear except when she’s wearing a dress. She only wears leggings and picky about the fabric and fit. We also gave up on pajamas and she now puts her clothes for the next day on before bed. It saves time in the morning for clothes freak outs. This winter she wore ugg style boots
With wool fur insides and no socks
All winter. Shoes for PE are a battle but I put them in her Bag and she changes at school. I do think once she has something on she’s typically fine but the thought of wearing certain shoes or clothes is crippling for her and she shuts down. I can’t find summer shoes that she’ll wear and need to get her out of the boots, any suggestions?
I know it sounds strange, but actually regularly playing in sensory bins for 4-6 weeks helps to ‘re-wire’ her tactile system so she can become more tolerant. I’d also ask her what she thinks would help, can you go shoe shopping together?
Thanks. She has no problem with the way things feel except
Clothes and shoes. She’ll happily play in mud, sand, wet etc.
We have 12 pairs of “pretty shoes” that she tried that don’t feel good that I need to return. All she’ll wear are Nike slides that are soft so that’s what she’ll wear until school or camp says she can’t.
Your daughter sounds exactly like mine. She also wears an Ugg type boat all school year with no socks, last summer I got her sandals that are more like a sneaker and she was great with those. All you can do is try. Of course as soon as Fall came the Uggs were back.
This is a very late reply, but I’m dealing with same issues and didn’t realize it could actually be a sensory problem.
Anyways… my daughter would wear crocs all summer. Because they are wide and comfortable. Plus something like these Native Kids Shoes Jefferson Bling Glitter (Little Kid) Girls Shoes …
I couldn’t post a pic. Looks like different manufacturers… but she lived in these all summer long. And I think they make some similar for winter, so I’m going to check that out as well.
Good luck!
My daughter is almost 11 and this has controlled our lives. She will want to buy clothes that she insists will be better, tries them on and says she likes them and then takes the tags off and immediately says they feel weird and she can’t handle it. She’ll say she’ll only wear sweats, so we buy her sweats. Those particular sweats done feel right or are slightly too short and touch her ankle or slightly too long.
We’re always stressed and every morning makes me have full blown panic about getting her ready for school. I thought this would go away by this age, but it’s actually gotten worse. It used to be only underwear, then underwear and socks, then pants and now shirts. She has dropped out of every sport she enjoys because she can’t handle the uniforms. She won’t swim because she refuses a bathing suit and wet clothes make her crazy.
Have you heard of it lasting to this age? Do you think it could still be this? We have constantly told her we would get her help, but she screams at the thought.
I feel hopeless
Absolutely, it can! I’d think about taking her to an occupational therapy evaluation to help her desensitize and learn coping strategies. Playing in a variety of sensory bins can also be immensely beneficial if you do them daily for 6-8 weeks and rotate textures. We also have a free sensory workshop that can give you a bigger picture way to help handle this. Check it out at yourkidstable.com/workshop
My daughter is 10 and does this exact same thing. We have recently discovered she has OCD.
Thank you for the article and suggestions. I started to tear up when you mentioned some of the things your son would do with his issues with clothing. My daughter is 6 almost 7 and we have been dealing with clothing issues since she was about 2ish almost 3. I keep thinking she will just grow out of it, but it is starting to effect her in other areas. For instance, she would like to play softball, but the idea of her wearing the full uniform, will give her major sensory issues. She has problems withe shirts, pants, socks, underwear, shoes and having her hair up. No issues withe food, sleep, sight, hearing, or academics. Just clothes/hair. I do have outfits that she would wear daily, but there are times when she has to wear a dress, jeans, or a uniform of some sort and it makes her have a complete meltdown. One of the most frustrating parts of of it all is that she will pick out her clothes the night before, try them on, be perfectly fine with it, and then the next day she acts like it is hurting her to have that outfit on. It is not like she dislikes the way it looks, she cannot stand it on her skin. Her pupils dilate, she can’t think, cries, and goes into a full fledge meltdown. I feel helpless over here. I have tried multiple things to help her. <3
It’s definitely a tough thing to deal with. Be sure to try some of the tips in the post more than once. Sometimes it changes from day to day like you have seen already.
I definitely will! Thank you 🙂
My 8 year old has been struggling with pants and panties lately. Mostly it’s the pants. The sensory bins sound like something we could try. I noticed in the pics that they are mostly little kids that fit their whole body in the container. Would it be beneficial for her to play in a bin with just her hands or does it need to be something big enough to put her legs in since that is the problem area?
Oh yes, still beneficial, I’ve used them with older kids! I’d just have her put her feet in if she can tolerate that, you may have to work up to that though!
I was just like Isaac when I was a kid. I couldn’t wear anything but the softest/most comfortable clothes without being acutely miserable. I don’t think my parents ever understood what was wrong with me and would force me to wear clothes and shoes that would make me throw a fit. All I could focus on for hours was the item of clothing touching me and how much I HATED it. As an adult, I’ve mostly grown out of it, but there are still ways that I hate being touched and some clothing that I still can’t wear without feeling uncomfortable. I’m glad to know at least that I’m not alone.
Not at all Lanae, thanks for sharing! It will help others understand their kids better:)
Thank you Alisha, I’m writing from Rome, Italy, and I found very interesting, complete and so useful your post! My 6 year old son troubles every day to find the right socks or pants, even for the t-shirt!!! Do you know-how that this particular trait in children could be the signal of High Sensitive? I’ve found, some years ago, that he is a High Sensitive Person, like I am and from that moment I started to understand him and his strange behaviours in a different way!
I’m so glad you’ve had those insights, being particular about clothing is definitely a sensitivity from the sensory processing side of things. Some textures are bothering him because of how they feel!
Thanks for this! Are the sensory bin and sensory diet ideas for any age? If so, do you have any tips on using it with older kids? My son is 7, so just touching things isn’t that interesting for him. He is aware enough to know when something is “for his own good”, so he needs to be bought in that it will be fun.
Oh yes, I’ve used sensory bins with kids up to the age of teenagers. My 8 year old will still go hog wild in a sensory bin (he has no tactile or clothing sensitivities). But, to get him interested, you could hide puzzle pieces, pokemon cards, game pieces, whatever he’s interested in. I’d also focus on art. Finger painting or painting with colored shaving cream, etc.
Well said, understanding is the best way to approach kids, unless you see their sensitiveness about their clothes in their own terms, you will always lose control of your self, which strains the relationship between you and them further. Simply understand
Absolutely!
I fought with underwear and socks for years with my daughter and we always had to find compromises, she decided as a teenager that she could at last wear socks and underwear but this was definitely her own choice. At primary school she was able to wear her own choice of clothes, leggings and t.shirts/sweatshirts and fur lined boots in winter. I wrote my two books happy Tapping with Mia & Charlie and Energy EFT For Teenagers to help other parents with stresses and anxieties around home and school life. I wish I had known about EFT when my girls were small, it would have made so much difference!
You’re so sweet Karen, the sensory stuff is slow coming! Not a lot of people still know about it. I bet you did just great with him:) Thanks for sharing your perspective, so helpful for parents living it now!
Oh how I wish your website was around 25 years ago. I could have been such a better mom. For the longest time my son called jeans “hard pants,” would wear, only under duress, a button down shirt, refused to wear shirts with any kind of design that he could feel on the inside of the shirt, had to have the tags removed, and would only wear socks with the nubs cut off. He is now 25. I am happy to report that he cuts the nubs off of his own socks now, prefers to wear shorts, primarily gym shorts (even during Kansas City, Missouri, winters). However when it comes to work, or his wife wants to be seen in public with him :), he will wear pants/jeans now.
We’re in kc too ☺ currently struggling with clothing for my 6 yo daughter. I try to get her into a warm shower/bath before school time to warm up her muscles. Shes a nudist. Its been hard having to wear a uniform, she wears her pants and socks inside out and refuses underwear. Ive been searching for silky pants or softer pants without as many seams and have yet to find any. Her 3 yo sister is falling right behind her, I have 5 children all together.
That’s so tough Sarah! I can’t tell you how much of an impact regular play in the sensory bins can have!
Hi,
My daughter, 3 years, has always been complicated with clothes, but we’ve had two crisis, when we started potty training and now that we took her pacifier away. And also when she is overtired it is really difficult.
I went to an OT and she could not diagnose her with anything. So I think she is just more sensible.
Hey Maria,
I’d try some of the tips from the article to see if that helps, like providing extra time and options!
Best,
Desiree
My daughter is four years old and has SPD. Panties ar a struggle for her too. I recently found panties at Walmart that’s don’t have as many seamstress and the material isn’t smooth kind of like a swimsuit. Also no tags and it’s a walmart brand product. Hope it helps you.
I totally know what you mean…my daughter is the same way. Its been a struggle every morning trying to get out the door. She also wears here sweaters and jackets inside out…My biggest struggle is socks, underwear and pants..She stills refuses to wear pants even its 30 degrees outside. If I even try to force her to wear them she just cries and she rips them off. I don’t know what to do. Its exhausting. I am in the mist of trying to find new socks and shoes for her at this time. Ive managed to have here find 3 dresses she will wear but thats about it…hoping she grows out of this.