Some kids with sensory processing concerns may have a hard time getting in the bath or shower, especially when hair washing is involved. Bath time can be overwhelming to them and the anticipation of washing their hair can cause them distress. Some kids may have poor tolerance to vestibular input, poor tactile tolerance of the water on their skin or temperature of the water, or they may dislike the feeling of water splashed on their face.
Here are some tips to make bath time more enjoyable and and hair washing more tolerable.
- Playing with shaving cream or bath paints while in the bath
- Participating in water play outside of the bath time
- Utilizing a hair washing visor or goggles to avoid water dripping or splashing on the face
- Placing a picture on the ceiling so child can look up when getting hair rinsed
- Placing a wash cloth over face while rinsing
- Utilizing a rinsing cup
- Participating in a variety of dry and wet tactile play outside of bath time
- Completing vestibular activities such as having the child rock on their back on a large exercise ball
- Utilizing a visual schedule for bath time routines
- Utilizing a hand-held sprayer to wash/rinse hair