Dec 21 2008
Sensory Solstice
Happy Winter Solstice! In keeping with our family tradition, we got up early this morning and went outside to greet the sun. From now on the days will start to gradually lengthen - what’s not to celebrate? As we trekked through calf-deep snow (knee deep for poor MM) I realized what a sensory wonderland it was for Gus!
I’ve read that kids with ADHD and many on the autism spectrum do particularly well when they can spend some time out in nature. I’ve found this to be true for Gus (Asperger’s and borderline ADHD). I did some videotaping and tried to experience the moment from his perspective. I’m not expert at video-making yet, but here’s a brief glimpse of our trip to the lake this morning:
- Trudging through the snow allowed Gus to use his large muscles providing proprioceptive sensory input and also strengthening the weaker core muscles.
- Being bundled in several layers of warm clothing gave him some deep pressure (squeezing) which tends to be calming for him.
- At one point, Gus lay down in the snow which also provided deep pressure with the added bonus of a snow angel thrown in with the deal.
- Early morning, cold, snowy day - very quiet and heavenly for a child with noise sensitivity.
- The rushing wind created a white noise that added to the soothing feel, especially when listening to it through a jacket hood.
On the way back, we decided to take the long scenic route, and I noticed that Gus was exuberant and loving the morning, but not in the manic way we typically see when he’s racing through the house. That was a gift in itself!
Speaking of gifts, the kids were allowed to open a couple of gifts last night and this morning. Celebrating both Solstice/Yule and Christmas helps to mitigate some of the craziness of Christmas day. They get less overwhelmed by too much ’stuff’ and can take the time to enjoy their presents a little at a time. He loved the mini Hot Wheels set and the new Leapster game; the MP3 player didn’t go over as well as I thought. Perhaps when he learns to use it, he’ll warm up a little to it.
So that was our morning. How does your special sensory needs child do with outdoor/nature time?
Hello
Wow How lucky the children are to have parents who understand and teach about love through all of their senses. Blessed Yule My sister my mother and my friend…
Love and hugs to all
Blessed Solstice
Jade
It was a beautiful video. . . we’re about to go out and do the same. . . although its’ now mid-afternoon. . . We’re also going to be waist deep in the snow! Thanks for sharing.
What a beautiful sight! I enjoyed the video - is this the lake you spend so much time over the summer? Anyone would surely find it relaxing. I’m glad it helped your son. Happy (belated) Solstice, I hope the rest of your holiday season is equally as calm and peaceful.
M loves nature as well, especially being out on a boat or sitting on the side of a pond. Winter, now that is a bit tougher. M does not do well with the cold at all.
I am catching up here and have missed reading your posts. Hopefully I will get back into a routine here soon.
Hugs and Merry Christmas!
My son loves being outside when it is warm. He likes the snow, or should I say is fascinated by it. We don’t get it that often here. He doesn’t like it on him though.
Thanks for sharing!
Merry Christmas!