By Stephanie Lord-Darby

As we step into the term holidays, it’s completely normal to feel a swirl of excitement and anxiety all at once. With the pause of school routines and the shift in daily rhythms, many parents find themselves quietly worrying about how their child will cope, especially when it comes to eating, sleeping, and staying regulated. If the thought of the holidays feels more overwhelming than freeing for your family, please know this: you are not alone.

So here’s what we want you to hold close: you know your child best. Trust that deep instinct—even if it leads to an awkward conversation with extended family about shifting cousin catch-ups to protect nap times, or rescheduling playdates so they don’t clash with your child’s lunch window. You have not only the right but the power to shape a home environment that truly fits your child’s unique needs—without apology.

To help with that, we reached out to our Occupational Therapist, Sienna Southen, and Speech Pathologist, Felicity Conlan, for their expert advice on building sensory-friendly environments. Here’s what they want every family to know.

Signs of Sensory Overwhelm
First, it helps to recognise when your child’s brain is taking in more sensory information than it can comfortably manage. Look for:

• Covering ears with hands
• Squinting or rapid blinking
• Avoiding touch
• Trying to leave a space or withdrawing
• Crying or difficulty listening

Some children are sensory sensitive, while others are less responsive (needing more input to register information). If you notice some of the above, often, a sensory assessment with an OT can help you understand your child’s unique profile. 

Sienna Southen Therapy4Life 

 

Felicity Conlan, GymbaROO-KindyROO’s Ambassador Speech Pathologist shares simple ways to create a sensory-friendly space. “You don’t need a complete home makeover. Small adjustments can make a big difference”- 

• Lighting: Use soft, natural lighting where possible and reduce harsh fluorescent lights.
• Sound: Turn down or switch off background music and reduce the number of people in a space when you can.
• Clutter: Reduce visual clutter to minimise cognitive load.
• Predictability: Keep routines clear with visual supports so your child knows what to expect.
• Movement: Incorporate movement breaks and opportunities for linear vestibular input, such as gentle swinging back and forth.
• Quiet Spaces: Create a low-stimulation space where your child can retreat for a regulation break.

Building a Shared Language
For managing big feelings, Felicity recommends the We Thinkers! series. These books give children a language for emotions by teaching concepts such as “size of the problem” and helping them link thoughts to feelings and behaviour. They make abstract ideas concrete and give children practical strategies—not just rules—for self-regulation.

Felicity Conlan, Speech for The Stars 

The holidays don’t have to be perfect. By leaning into what you know about your child and making small adjustments to their environment, you can create a sense of calm and connection that lasts well beyond the break.

 

Term 2 at GymbaROO-KindyROO will continue to provide families with practical, age-appropriate ways to engage their children through movements, music, and sensory activities that can build confidence for both parents and children. Sign up for our mega Easter giveaway for a chance to win one of three prizes including a FREE TERM, a six-week trial class pack and three-week trial class pack – sign up here.