Dressing

Children’s special needs clothes

Children may need special clothing for a variety of reasons. This can be anything from a need to reduce anxiety, sensitivity to everyday clothes or reduced mobility. For example, if your child has high anxiety, they might benefit from weighted clothing. Alternatively, if you have a child with eczema or sensitive skin, they could benefit from clothing made from specific materials. On the other hand, you may have a child with reduced mobility or who requires adapted clothing for tube feeding.

How can weighted clothing help your child?

Weighted clothing can be anything from a weighted vest to a weighted hat. These pieces of clothing are similar to a typical garment. The main difference is the added weight. The weight in these pieces of clothing can usually be adjusted according to your child’s needs. Weighted clothing can contain the weight either in the fabric or by adding weighed beads into the material. In this case, the beads would be built into the clothing for your child. Weighted clothing such as a weighted hat or vest can really benefit child with autism, ADHD, anxiety or hyperactivity. It is recommended that this provides a deep pressure touch to help ease any feelings of tension and promote relaxation. As a result, there are many benefits to weighted clothing. This includes increased focus, relaxation and self-regulation. All children react differently to weighted clothing. For this reason, it is important to observe your child while wearing weighted clothing. It is also important to speak to a medical professional before tying anything new with your child.

What is best fabric for eczema?

Do you have a child with eczema or atopic dermatitis? This usually results in your child having itchy skin that is sensitive to clothing. Fabric such as cotton, bamboo and silk work better for children with sensitive skin conditions. Research shows that this fabric tends to be better for your child’s skin than synthetic fabric as it reduces irritation.  It is important to have clothing that allows your child’s skin to breathe. This tends to be clothing that is lightweight. For example, your child’s skin might prefer material such as cotton and silk. Silk can be more beneficial than cotton as it is less likely to absorb the moisture from sweat. If your child has eczema or irritable skin, it is best to avoid fabrics which are synthetic. Fabric such as wool and fleece can have a negative affect and cause more irritation to your child’s skin. This is due to various factors such as an increase in heat absorption. What is adapted clothing? Does your child have tube feeding or mobility needs? Are you searching for something more comfortable and appropriate for your child than the typical everyday clothing? Adapted clothing is clothing that has been altered to make your child’s everyday life more comfortable. This might be comfortability with putting on the clothes or modifications to make tube feeding easier. Anyone who has an additional need with dressing or feeding will can benefit from adapted clothing. This includes children with cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy and other needs that make daily dressing a challenge. Adaptive clothing tends to have Velcro, buttons and flat seems that would allow easy access and dressing.