Strategies to use in the community
Managing sensory input while out in the community can seem difficult or awkward but there are plenty of ways to help you child while allowing you to participate in the activities that are important or needed such as grocery shopping or going to a restaurant. Along with this resource, ask your occupational therapist for more tips, tricks, or ideas that could help your child.
Modifications
While it is not always possible to control the environment around you while out in the community, there are ways you can help your child manage the input they receive.
Sunglasses - for bright lights and the sun
Headphones - quiets loud noises
Hat - blocks light and gives some gentle calming squeezing
Music - calming music to drown out the hustle and bustle
Water/Snacks - nobody likes to get hangry
Fidgets - a nice calming distraction to focus on
"Go bag" - bag you can bring anywhere filled with preferred items, activities, and tools including snacks
While the above list might give you some ideas of how to manage sensory input, there are other ways too.
Prep your child ahead of time. Not only let them know what will be happening but help them get regulated before you go. Getting some of the energy out and getting the input needed will make that trip to the grocery store more tolerable for them.
Be ok with leaving and have an exit strategy. Sometimes all the preparation in the world just won't help and that is ok. When your child becomes dysregulated or overwhelmed there is nothing wrong with waving the white flag during your outing so that you can help them instead. When this happens, have a strategy that will make things easy for both you and your child.
Make time for sensory breaks. If your activity is going to take awhile, plan for some breaks. Allow your child to move around if they need it or give them time to relax in some peace and quiet. These breaks help prevent the full-blown meltdowns that could completely end your outing.
Activities you can do while out in the community
Hopping or skipping into the store
Riding in the cart with weighted lap pad or while holding items
Listen to music or sing songs
Help push the cart
Use fidgets
Carrying something heavy (but not too heavy)
Make a pit stop at the park
Give nice long hugs, use a weighted vest, or wear a weighted backpack
Spin around
Jump as high as you can
Chew gum
Drink from a straw
Suck on some sour candy
Hang by the arms (like from monkey bars)
Walk
Practice
What is the best way to get better at something? Practice. Go to community sensory-friendly or autism-friendly events and practice different strategies as well as help your child get used to going out. The Fargo-Moorhead community has a number of events throughout the year along with businesses that offer activities for those who have sensory difficulties. A quick online search will give you some ideas and on the "Other Resources" page there will be some as well.