Navigating Sensory Aversions to Daily Living Skills

At Pathways 2 Potential, we’ve learned that behind every behavior is a story. When a child resists brushing their teeth, screams during haircuts, or melts down at bath time, it’s not about defiance or disobedience. More often than not, it’s about sensory overwhelm—and feeling out of control.

If you’re a parent or caregiver navigating sensory aversions around daily living skills, we want you to know two things:

1. You are not alone.

2. Your child’s feelings are valid—and we can support them with respect, patience, and compassion.

   
   

Let’s talk about how we can gently guide children through these challenging tasks, using gradual exposure, individualized supports, and most importantly—assent-based care.

What Are Sensory Aversions?

Sensory aversions happen when a person has a strong, negative reaction to sensory input—like sounds, textures, smells, or temperatures. For example:

• The feeling of water on the skin might be distressing during bath time.

• The bristles of a toothbrush may cause gagging or discomfort.

• Certain clothing textures or tags may feel unbearable.

  
  

These experiences aren’t exaggerated or “overreactions”—they are real, and they impact how your child engages with the world around them.

Why Assent Matters

In ABA and in life, one of our guiding values should always be respecting a person's voice—even if they don't use words to communicate. Assent means your child is actively participating in a way that shows they're willing, comfortable, and safe.

When we gain assent, we:

• Empower children to have a say in what happens to them

• Build trust and cooperation over time

• Reduce trauma and resistance by honoring boundaries

  
  

If a child turns away, pushes something away, or says “no,” that’s a communication of discomfort. And we listen. Our job is not to force, but to support—gently and gradually.

Using Gradual Exposure: Meet Them Where They Are

Gradual exposure is a proven technique that helps children build tolerance to sensory experiences at their own pace. Here's how it works:

1. Start with observation and understanding

Notice what specific part of the task is uncomfortable. Is it the sound of the clippers? The feel of wet socks? The coldness of the toothpaste?

2. Break the task into baby steps

Instead of expecting a full shower, start with dipping hands in water. If toothbrushing is difficult, begin by letting your child touch or hold the toothbrush—no paste, no brushing, just holding.

3. Pair each step with something positive

Use praise, a favorite activity, or a preferred item to help your child associate the step with something they enjoy. “You touched the toothbrush—great job! Now we get to read your favorite book.”

4. Gain assent before moving forward

Watch for signs of engagement and comfort. If your child willingly participates, even for a second, that’s your green light to continue. If not, pause. Try again later. No shame, no pressure.

5. Be consistent, but flexible

Repetition builds familiarity, but it’s okay if progress isn’t linear. Some days your child may tolerate more than others—and that’s okay. Celebrate effort, not perfection.

Real-Life Example: Hair Washing

The challenge: Your child hates having their hair washed. They cry, try to run, or beg you to stop.

A gradual, assent-based plan might look like this:

• Day 1: Sit near the bathroom and read a book

• Day 2: Touch the shampoo bottle

• Day 3: Put a few drops of water on your child’s arm

• Day 4: Let your child pour water into the sink

• Day 5: Wet a small cloth and gently touch it to their hair (if they agree)

• Eventually: Slowly work up to a full hair wash—at their pace

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At every step, check for signs of comfort. If they pull back, pause. Praise every attempt, and let them know they’re safe and in control.

Tools That Can Help

• Visual schedules: Show each step of the routine with pictures so your child knows what to expect

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• First/Then boards: “First we dip our fingers in water, then we play with your train”

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• Social stories: Simple, personalized stories can help your child understand and prepare for the experience

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• Choice boards: Let your child pick which towel, shampoo scent, or toothbrush color they want—it builds ownership

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• Timers or music: Make tasks predictable and engaging

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• Noise Cancelling Headphones: Sometimes this just helps dampen the noise so they can manage less incoming stimuli

  
  

You’re Not Failing—You’re Learning Together

It’s easy to feel frustrated or defeated when daily routines become daily battles. But your love, your patience, and your willingness to understand your child’s needs are powerful tools. And you don’t have to do this alone.

At Pathways to Potential, we believe in supporting the whole child—with compassion, consent, and customized strategies. We’ll work with you to develop sensory-friendly routines that honor your child’s comfort while building essential life skills.

Remember: progress is progress, no matter how small. And every time your child feels safe, heard, and supported—they’re growing in ways that truly matter.

Need help navigating sensory aversions or building a step-by-step plan? We’re here to support you. Reach out to us at info@pathways2potential.org. Let’s work together to make daily life feel a little more peaceful—for everyone.