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Special Needs

Yom Tov Transitions Made Easy

Special Needs

Yom Tov Transitions Made Easy

Ease your child into Yom Tov smoothly

Navigating all the changes that Yom Tov brings can be challenging for children with special needs, but with a little creativity and planning, you can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Here are some tips to help your child feel comfortable and excited during this time:

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Yom Tov Transitions Made Easy
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  1. Visual Schedules: Create a visual schedule to outline daily activities, including meal times and naps. This is especially helpful during trips and holidays when routines may shift. A clear schedule helps children know what to expect and reduces anxiety.

  2. Comfort Objects: Introduce a special toy or blanket that can provide comfort and familiarity in new settings. These objects offer a tangible sense of security and reassurance for young children.

  3. Flexibility with Food: Gradually introduce some holiday foods before the holiday starts. This helps children adjust to new tastes and textures. Encourage them with praise and consider creating a "new foods chart" to track their culinary adventures.

  4. Open Communication: Invite your child to share any worries or concerns they may have. Validate their feelings and provide reassurance. For instance, if they miss their usual breakfast during Pesach, work together to find enjoyable alternatives.

  5. Celebrate Small Victories: Recognize and celebrate small achievements throughout the holiday season. This boosts confidence and helps turn transitions into positive experiences.

  6. Self-Care for Parents: Remember to take care of yourself. Staying calm and centered creates a more stable environment, which in turn supports your child's ability to adapt.

By incorporating these strategies, you can help your child feel more secure and joyful during holiday transitions.

Wishing you a joyful and peaceful Yom Tov!

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Auditory Sensitivity

My child is sensitive to loud noises
(e.g., sirens, vacuum cleaner).

My child seeks out specific sounds or types of music and appears calmer when listening to them.

Tactile Sensitivity

My child is irritated by certain fabrics or tags in clothing.

My child seems indifferent to sensations that are usually painful or to extreme temperatures.

Visual Sensitivity

My child is sensitive to bright or flashing lights.

My child tends to avoid eye contact.

Taste/Smell Sensitivity

My child constantly prefers bland foods and rejects foods with strong flavors or spices.

My child seeks out strong or unusual smells, such as sniffing food or objects.

Proprioceptive Sensitivity

My child prefers tight hugs or being wrapped in a blanket.

My child is unaware of body position in space (e.g., often bumps into things).

Social Sensitivity

My child becomes anxious or distressed in crowded spaces.

My child is hesitant or resistant to climbing or balancing activities (e.g., jungle gyms, see-saws).

Movement Sensitivity

My child dislikes fast or spinning movements

Vestibular Sensitivity

My child becomes anxious or distressed in crowded spaces.

My child is hesitant or resistant to climbing or balancing activities (e.g., jungle gyms, see-saws).

Please answer all questions before submitting.

Your Child’s Score is

  • 0-15

    Low Sensory Sensitivity

  • 16-30

    Moderate Sensory Sensitivity

  • 31-45

    High Sensory Sensitivity

  • 46-60

    Very High Sensory Sensitivity

0-15: Low Sensory Sensitivity

  • Interpretation: Your child exhibits low levels of sensory sensitivity, usually falling within the typical developmental range.
  • Recommendation: Generally not  a cause for concern. If you have specific worries or notice a sudden change in behavior, consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

  • 0-15

    Low Sensory Sensitivity

  • 16-30

    Moderate Sensory Sensitivity

  • 31-45

    High Sensory Sensitivity

  • 46-60

    Very High Sensory Sensitivity

16-30: Moderate Sensory Sensitivity

  • Interpretation: Your child displays moderate sensory sensitivity, which may warrant intervention.
  • Recommendation: Consider sensory-friendly activities, sensory sensitive toys, or sensory sensitive clothing like noise-canceling headphones and weighted blankets to improve comfort. If symptoms persist, consult health care professionals.

  • 0-15

    Low Sensory Sensitivity

  • 16-30

    Moderate Sensory Sensitivity

  • 31-45

    High Sensory Sensitivity

  • 46-60

    Very High Sensory Sensitivity

31-45: High Sensory Sensitivity

  • Interpretation: Your child has higher than average sensory sensitivity that may interfere with daily functioning.
  • Recommendation: Seek a detailed evaluation by health care professionals for sensory integration therapy options and potential environmental modifications.

  • 0-15

    Low Sensory Sensitivity

  • 16-30

    Moderate Sensory Sensitivity

  • 31-45

    High Sensory Sensitivity

  • 46-60

    Very High Sensory Sensitivity

46-60: Very High Sensory Sensitivity

  • Interpretation: Your child demonstrates high levels of sensory sensitivity that could significantly interfere with daily life.
  • Recommendation: If your child displays this level of sensory sensitivity, it’s highly recommended that you consult with a health care professional for a multi-disciplinary assessment. You will probably be directed towards early intervention programs and specialized support.

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