28 Jul Unexpected Ways Your Child’s Sensory Profile May Be Affected by Seasonal Changes

Seasonal changes often mean new clothes, weather, and routines. For a child on the autism spectrum, these changes can feel much bigger than just swapping summer shorts for a winter jacket.

Many autistic children have sensory sensitivities, meaning they process the world differently—some notice every slight change in their environment, while others may not register certain sensations at all. As seasons shift, the world around them feels and functions differently in ways you might not expect.

Here are some less obvious ways seasonal changes can affect your child’s sensory experience:

Clothing and Texture Surprises

• Winter layers – Jackets, gloves, scarves, and beanies can feel restrictive or irritating, especially for children sensitive to tight or scratchy fabrics.
• New textures – Seasonal clothing might introduce fabrics your child isn’t used to, which can be overwhelming until they become familiar.
• Footwear challenges – New shoes or boots may feel heavier, make unfamiliar noises, or have textures that feel “wrong” to your child.

Temperature and Light Shifts

• Colder weather and changes in natural light can make the environment feel less predictable.
• Some children may not notice cold at all, refusing warm clothes, while others may feel freezing in conditions that seem mild to you.
• Shorter daylight hours can disrupt their sense of time—dark evenings may signal “bedtime” earlier than usual, leading to confusion or frustration.

Environmental Factors You Might Not Expect

• Dry indoor heating can cause skin irritation, nosebleeds, or a general feeling of discomfort.
• Sudden temperature contrasts, such as transitioning from cold outdoor air to a hot bath, can feel extreme and lead to meltdowns for some children.
• Weather changes—such as wind, frost, or humidity—alter the way the environment feels on the skin and can increase anxiety or sensory-seeking behaviours.

Routine Disruptions and Sleep Changes

• Seasonal changes often disrupt routines, such as varying wake-up and sleep times, reduced outdoor activities, or holiday schedule adjustments.
• Shifts in daylight can also impact sleep patterns, and poor sleep is associated with irritability, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating.

Everyday Sensory Tasks Feel Different

• Runny noses and colds in winter can mean more frequent tissue use—something many autistic children dislike due to the sensation of wiping or blowing.
• Heavier blankets or duvets may feel comforting for some children, while others may feel trapped or “crushed” by the weight.

What feels small to us can feel big to a child with sensory differences. A new texture, a sudden change in routine, or a daylight shift can all contribute to discomfort, anxiety, or behavioural changes.

By paying attention to these details and gradually introducing changes—such as practicing with new clothes, explaining routine changes visually, or maintaining consistent sleep patterns—you can make seasonal transitions smoother and less overwhelming.