Hygiene Ideas For Sensory Processing Disorder







Children with Sensory Processing Disorder can really struggle with their hygiene. Self care is important but it can be quite challenging for parents who have children with sensory differences. 

Not only do children with Sensory Processing Disorder struggle with hygiene and self care, but children who have Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder struggle too. 

Brushing teeth, bathing, showering, cutting hair, cutting toenails and washing hands can be quite difficult for children who have sensory difficulties. 

Your child can have a hard time with self care for many different reasons. It could be tactile defensiveness, gross or fine motor and coordination. 

little boy with sensory differences Hygiene Ideas For Sensory Processing Disorder




Brushing teeth provides oral stimulation and sensory input which is great for your child's development and oral skills. 

Children with Sensory Processing Disorder are hyposensitive and hypersensitiveA sensory seeker is hyposensitive and an avoider is hypersensitive. A seeker may enjoy an electric toothbrush while an avoider may want a really soft bristle toothbrush. Most children who have SPD are sensitive to the taste of toothpaste and will want non-flavored toothpaste. 

Let your child choose a flavor toothpaste or the type of brush they would like to try. You may start to feel like you have tried every toothbrush and toothpaste there is on the planet before finding one they like. Each child is different. You may need to try different sizes, different bristles, different flavors, no flavor, or different colors. It can also be the temperature of the water too; try using cold, warm and hot water when they brush their teeth. 

Put a timer in the bathroom so they know how long they have to brush their teeth. Timers help kids stay focused. You could try hanging a chart on the wall and praise them with stickers on their chart so they can see their accomplishments. 

If you are unable to find what your child is willing to use or try you could use an oral swab, NUK Toothbrush or an infant finger toothbrush. 

Try singing a song they love while they're brushing their teeth. There's many teeth brushing apps for kids. Make brushing teeth fun, brush your teeth at the same time as your child, play games and make faces while they brush their teeth. 

There are many different toys that can teach children how to brush their teeth too. 

Remember those plaque tablets we had when we were kids? They are a fantastic way to show your child where their sugar bugs are hiding. 

There's several books for children that you can read together. Social stories for kids who have Sensory Processing Disorder can be very helpful. (books listed bottom of the page)

Many children who have Sensory Processing Disorder do not like going in the bath but others love it so much you can't get them to get out. If you struggle trying to get your child to bath, you are not alone.  

Sometimes a child who has Sensory Processing Disorder doesn't want to get in the bath because they don't want to get their face wet, don't want to wash their hair, they prefer showers or they don't like the feel of different soaps. 

Some children want to have more control over the water. Purchasing a new shower head could be helpful or a hand held shower head. There are shower heads that also change color that your child may be more willing to try. The temperature could be warmer or cooler. 

Some children may also have fear of falling or slipping. They may also not like to touch the bottom of the bath tub so putting down a bath mat or a towel may help them feel more secure and less anxious. 

You could always try using a cup or a hair rinser when you are washing your child's hair to avoid getting soap and water in their eyes or their face. 

Your child may prefer to be washed with a soft face cloth, puff, brush or sponge. Each child is different. You may find they enjoy one more than the other. 

Using bubble bath, children's play bath foam or bath crayons could entertain your child while you are washing them. Making bath time fun can ease their anxiety. Have you ever tried glow sticks in the bath tub while in the dark? That's a great sensory activity for kids. Dim the lighting or change the color bulb in a bathroom can also be calming for kids while they have a bath.   

Bath time can be a great time for sensory play too. Adding sensory bath toys and fidgets are great for sensory input. 

Have you tried unscented shampoos? These can be great for children who are sensitive to smells. They are fragrance free kids shampoo. Sometimes it can take trying a few to find one that your child isn't sensitive too. 

 It's okay to skip washing their hair on the tougher days. Dry shampoo can be extremely helpful on those days. 

If your child is tactile sensitive you may want to try a super soft towel. Many children prefer a heavier towel too. 

Visual timers are very helpful for bath time. Your child is able to countdown the time they have left in the bath. Social stories are a great way to explain to your child about bathing and why it's important. (books listed bottom of the page) 

What works for one child, won't work for another child. We often have to try several different things before we find what they can tolerate. 

Washing hands is extremely important, more now than ever but it can be challanging for kids who have Sensory Processing Disorder.  

Washing our hands is the best way to stop the spread of germs and prevents us from getting sick. 

Children should wash their hands before eating or preparing food. Children should always wash their hands after they have used the bathroom, sneezing, coughing, playing outdoors or in water, blowing their nose, touching pets or animals, eating or coming in your house from playing with other children or on playground equipment. 

Children who have Sensory Processing Disorder can have aversion to smells, sounds and touch. (tactile) This can make it difficult for them to wash their hands. 

Timers are a great visual too so they know how long they are expected to wash their hands. Singing the Happy Birthday song is a great way to know how long they need to wash their hands. 

Some children prefer bars of soap while other children like liquid or foam soap more. Scented soaps could also bother your child too and some prefer unscented soaps. 

Your child may want cold water or warm water. All children are different. 

Reaching the taps and sink could be difficult for your child. Having a child's stool could be helpful for your child to reach the sink. 

Many children cannot tolerate the sound of hand dryers. You may need to keep paper towels on hand in your bag while you are out for drying their hands or your child could use ear protection. 


If your child is like mine, they may require hand lotion after they wash their hands because they feel dry. I have always had to keep lotion in my bag or she wouldn't want to wash her hands. 

Often our children have challenges with fine motor skills. It can be difficult for them to use some soap dispensers. There are automatic soap dispensers that your child can use easily. 

Praise your child when you notice they are doing a great job and encourage them to wash their hands. Often parents will have a sticker chart or a small treasure box with dollar store prizes for rewards. 

When cutting your child's hair at home you can also do a little at a time. Plan a weekend hair cut. A weekend at home when you can do a few trims here and there until it is completed.


Ask your child if they would prefer to stand or sit during their hair cut. You want them to feel comfortable and in a position that feels most relaxing to them. 


The words we use can change everything because some children hear the word "cut" and they are fearful. Try using a less scary or worrisome word like grooming.


YouTube have many videos of hair cuts. A great visual for a child to see different hair cuts by different people to reassure them that they will be safe and that they can do it too. It allows them to be more prepared. 

Books for children that are about hair cuts can be quite useful as well. Using social stories for hair cuts could also be very helpful too. This is a great way to prepare them. 

When your child doesn't like having their hair brushed there's several brushes that can make it so much easier for them. Have them choose a brush that feels good for them and you can even take it along to the salon with you. Knot Genie, Happy Brushes & Wet Brush are the most popular.






Helpful Hygiene Tools






Dr. Bob Unflavored Toothpaste - Natural Xylitol Baby, Toddler, Kids Toothpaste with Fluoride for Sensitive Teeth - No Artificial Flavors, SLS-Free, Dye-Free, Flavorless for Children -Made in USA- 4oz
KIDS WITH SENSITIVITIES: Our flavor-free toothpaste is great for kids & adults with taste sensitivities. Our unflavored formula will not leave a bad taste in their mouths
PREMIUM ORAL HEALTH: Our unflavored toothpaste is made for adults & children of all ages. Fluoride toothpaste offers tartar control, enamel repair, cavity prevention, reduced plaque, & oral health
NATURAL TOOTHPASTE: Made from all-natural, plant-based Xylitol with no harsh chemicals, & no artificial flavors or colors, Dr. Bob's is SLS-free, gluten-free, titanium dioxide-free, & dye-free.







Jack N' Jill Natural Kids Toothpaste - Flavor Free - Organic, Gluten Free, Vegan, BPA Free, Fluoride Free, SLS Free, Dairy Free - Make Toothbrushing Fun for Kids - 1.76 oz
MAKING TOOTHBRUSHING FUN FOR KIDS - Our Jack N’ Jill Toothpaste in Flavor Free makes toothbrushing ultra mild but still yum for kids. Young children have a tendency to swallow instead of spitting out, but you can rest assured as this toothpaste is safe if swallowed
WE HAVE OUR OWN KIDS TOO! - We know how hard it is to get young ones to brush - or allow parents to brush - which is why we want it to be a yummy and fun experience for them, as well as safe. Good toothpaste is hard to make, so we set out to make toothpaste without noxious chemicals







Triple Bristle GO | Portable AA Battery Sonic Toothbrush for Travel | Three Brush Modes | Soft Nylon Bristles - Great for Autistic & Special Needs Adults and Kids | Triple Bristle GO
The dentist created three sided sonic toothbrush, the Triple Bristle. This unique three sided toothbrush was designed to help take the guesswork out of brushing. The soft angled bristles clean all sides of your teeth at once, helping you obtain a brighter, whiter smile in 1/3 the time. Swap your single sided toothbrush for the Triple Bristle and discover a new way to help maintain your oral health.







Triple Bristle Best Kids Sonic Toothbrush | Rechargeable 31,000 VPM Tooth Brush | Patented 3 Brush Head Design | Angled Bristles Clean Each Tooth | Dentist Created & Approved | Sonic Toothbrush 1 Pack
TRIPLE BRISTLE KIDS: Start your child’s oral care journey out on the right path with our kids rechargeable sonic toothbrush. The patented kids sized 3-sided brush head gets the job done in 1/3 the time! Triple Bristle has been scientifically designed with 31,000 sonic stroke vibrations per minute to give your teeth the best possible clean in 1/3 the time of other kids toothbrushes. Includes colorful stickers that will add a little fun to their brushing routine!







Extra Soft Toothbrush for Sensitive Gums and Teeth. Micro Nano Toothbrushes with 20,000 Ultra Soft Aloe Infused Bristles. Excellent Cleaning Effect (2 Pack) (Aloe Wave Bristle) With more than 20,000 super soft Aloe infused bristles, our micro Nano Toothbrush is specially designed for hypersensitivity. Aloe has natural properties that can help with gingivitis, gum infections, periodontitis and other irritation occurring in the mouth. Great Extra Soft Toothbrushes for adult and kids.
Great Choice For Sensory Challenges
Micro Nano Toothbrush specially designed for hypersensitivity. Our customers have found our toothbrush helpful with kids and adults with autism, ADHD and SPD







3-PK :: DenTrust 3-Sided Toothbrush :: Easily Brush Better :: Clinically Proven Results :: Fast, Easy & More Effective for The Whole Family :: Adults, Children, Special Needs, Autism
Buy the best. Offers the ultimate solution because of the bristles ability to clean teeth and offers extra gum protection.
Helps improve your dental and oral hygiene habits automatically lessening the risk for gingivitis, tooth decay and gum disease.
Want an easier, more beneficial tooth brushing experience for you and your family? The soft bristles brush off plaque and offers quick access to all 3 sides of the teeth in one brushing stroke.







Kids Musical Timer for Teethbrushing with 3 Level Volume, 20 Seconds Handwash Timer and 2 Minutes Teeth Brush Timer Musical for Kids Training, Battery Powered Indicator LED Light 3 Level Adjustable Volume : Upgrade a way to control the volume of timer music melody and build-in Button with High, Middle and Low Volume, Timer Reminder with 12 kid songs melody .
More Visual and Audio Timer : Red and Green LED lights to be easy to realize this Timer ON/OFF ,make baby more clear to know Green Light means to Start action , and Light flashes faster when time is almost up
Perfect for Mother or Baby Carer : it develops health habit for brushing teeth training accord to 2 minutes, washing hand with 20 second ,they will give notice to care their teeth health.and the led timer give mother more to help to remind their kids
Mounts anywhere. 







My Brushing Chart: Toothbrush Reward Chart For Kids
Look for ways to engage your children in brushing?
Make brushing teeth fun for your kids with this tooth brushing incentive chart.
An oral hygiene chart can make brushing fun and rewarding.
Features:
53 Weeks
Morning and Night
Monday to Sunday







HOM Charts help with early childhood development. Designed for Parents, by Parents of Children with Special Needs. 100% Sealed and Laminated so it can be put up safely anywhere. Help your children learn to brush their own teeth with our step-by-step system. As Parents of a Child with Autism, Charts and Schedules have been crucial in raising our children. Your child will enjoy following along and gain confidence as they learn to take care of themselves. Universal Charts are helpful for all Children not just those with Special Needs. Now parents can relax knowing they don't have to complete every phase of tooth brushing with their Children as our system helps them to complete these tasks themselves. It is used in ABA and OT, and is a helpful tool for any Family. With HOM's all new Step-By-Step Chart System Parents can be comforted as you see your Child grow in independence and confidence. 







Plaque Disclosing Tablets, Dental Disclosing Tablets, A Teeth Coloring Tablets Plaque Finder Solution to Effectively Remove Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Disclosing Plaque Tablets - Plaque is not easily visible through naked eye which is difficult to remove, therefore these tiny chewable tablets contain a harmless natural dye that adheres to plaque – showing up bright pink or purple. Maintain a good oral hygiene! The Plaque disclosing solution is suggested to use before brushing to clearly demonstrate areas that area mainly built-up by tartar and plaque!







The Brushies Baby & Toddler Toothbrush, Chomps The Dino
Our founding characters – Willa, MoMo, Pinkey and Chomps – are finger puppet toothbrushes that team up to fight sugar bugs. Choose from Momo the Monkey, Willa the Whale, Chomps the Dino and Pinkey the Pig when it’s brushing time! All four Brushies work together to make brushing fun.







Make bath time bump-free and fun for baby with the Moby faucet cover, our best-selling whale.
The sleek spout cover design includes an adjustable strap that fits snugly on most tub spouts, and a tail that's also a handy hook, so Moby can hang around after baby's bath.
Soft, tough rubber protects baby during bath time. BPA-free, PVC-free, Phthalate-free bath spout cover for kids 








Can't get your child ready for bath time? If your child refuses to wash their hair because of stinging and soapy eyes. Don't fear the Lil' Rinser has come to your rescue. This ergonomically engineered visor like guard is designed to keep water, sham. 
Its soft rim contours fit smoothly yet snuggly against a child's head and channels water and soap away from sensitive areas
Lil Rinser is a water tight, form fitting solution for keeping soap, water and shampoo out of a young child's eyes, ears and mouth
A convenient and comfortable soft grip handle allows parents to hold the Lil Rinser in place
Lil Rinser is made of firm, yet flexible plastic.







Really safe for baby's delicate skin OR adults' sensitive skin as makeup remover cloth! Natural baby product. Hypo-allergenic, Larger Generous 12"x12" Size, Six-layer thick, Machine Washable. 

Baby bath washcloths for your baby's delicate sensitive skin. A comfortable washing experience. Great for Eczema. 

Adorable for both girls and boys. Baby The most absorbent organic baby bath towel and gets softer and softer with each wash.
 






6 Pack Reusable Sensory Brush, Surgical Brush, Nail Brush,Baby Bath Scrubber.
Sensory brush
A gentile foam scrub brush used during bath time for babies and children.
Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism Therapressure Therapy Brush Sponge Brush Surgical Hands Scrub Bristle Brushes 6 Colors
These sensory brushes measure 3.15 x 1.97 x1.50inches. The portable size makes it ideal for taking it with you wherever you go
Reusable or Disposable – Available in six fun colors your kids will love, these baby cleaning sponges can be used multiple times and then disposed of quickly and easily.







The innovative bath cup features interior fins that channel a steady flow of water to ensure quick cry-free rinses.
A soft rubber lip fits snuggly to the forehead, acting as a baby bath visor, preventing water from getting in eyes.
The easy grip handle allows you to hold the waterfall rinser in one hand and baby in the other.
Moby baby bath cup is dishwasher-safe and mold- and mildew-resistant
BPA-free, PVC-free, Phthalate-free shampoo rinse cup for baby 







Innobaby Bathin' Smart Silicone Fish Bath Scrub, Aqua/Periwinkle
Soft enough for even the smallest babies and gentle on your newborn's delicate skin. Our Silicone Fish Scrub also helps remove stubborn cradle cap and exfoliates dry skin.
Silicone is naturally easy to clean, plus it can be boiled for a deep cleaning.
Thousands of soft silicone bristles massage and soothe baby for a calming bath time experience.







HOM Charts help with early childhood development. Designed for Parents, by Parents of Children with Special Needs. 100% Sealed and Laminated so it can be put up safely in the bath. Help your children learn to bathe on their own with our step-by-step system. As Parents of a Child with Autism, Charts and Schedules have been crucial in raising our children. Your child will enjoy following along and gain confidence as they learn to take care of themselves. Universal Charts are helpful for all Children not just those with Special Needs. Now parents can relax knowing they don't have to complete every phase of bathing with their Children as our system helps them to complete these tasks themselves. It is used in ABA and OT, and is a helpful tool for any Family. With HOM's all new Step-By-Step Chart System Parents can be comforted as you see your Child grow in independence and confidence. We at HOM want to help other Families by using what has worked for ours. Bath/Shower time no longer has to be a long tedious event and can be one you and your child may even look forward to.







Moluk Plui Rain Cloud Tub Toy
A charming and smart bath toy with a touch of magic; fill it with water, let it rain and then stop the flow with a touch of a finger to the top hole
Simple physics, simply fascinating; illustrates the cycle of water and turns kids into little rain makers
Made from the highest quality ABS, a hidden mechanism in the Plui Cloud allows parents to open it for easy cleaning; no mess, mold or mildew
Helps develop motor skills, understanding of cause and effect, stimulates curiosity, imagination and the senses







SOAPEN Kids' Roll-On Hand Soap | Fun, Colorful Soap Pen | Encourages Proper Handwashing (3-Pack: Fresh Pear / Berry Blast/ Tangy Tangerine)
Washing for 20-40 Seconds is FUN- What feels like an eternity for kids to meet CDC guidelines is not so with SoaPen; Kids have fun washing their hands in 4 easy steps:  Draw, Wet, Rub, and Rinse; They know they’re done when all of the drawing on their hands has been washed away; Never again ask “Have you washed your hands?”, because as a parent you’ll be able to see for yourself
Only Clean Kid-Friendly Ingredients- SoaPen is non-toxic and free from SLS, parabens, EDTA, phthalates and any animal by-product, so it’s ideal for sensitive skin. 







Learning Resources 20-Second Handwashing Timer, Children's Timer, Home & Classroom Sanitation, Ages 3+
Build new handwashing skills to stay healthy during cold season!
Lights and sounds let you know when it's time to start and stop scrubbing!
Compact size means your timer fits anywhere!
CLASSROOM, BATHROOMS & MORE: Perfect for classrooms, restrooms, or wherever there's a sink!







Hand Washing Chart for Kids. Ideal for Children with Autism or Special Needs. Helps with Independence and self Care. PECS, Visual Schedules, ASD
HOM Charts help with early childhood development. Help your children learn to wash their hands on their own with our step-by-step system. As Parents of a Child with Autism, Charts and Schedules have been crucial in raising our children. Your child will enjoy following along and gain confidence as they learn to take care of themselves. Universal Charts are helpful for all Children not just those with Special Needs. Now parents can relax knowing they don't have to complete every phase of hand washing with their Children as our system helps them to complete these tasks themselves












Our brush works on all types of hair, even the most difficult. Knot Genie is a favored product of families with sensitive heads and sensory-disorder/autism. 
  • The patent pending tri-level bristles don’t have balls on the ends to catch knotty hair. The longer bristles penetrate hair, while the shorter rows act like tiny fingers that gently unravel knots.
  • Detangles and unravels hair without damaging the hair’s cuticle or pulling hair
  • Works on all types of hair: straight, wavy/curly, multi-cultural, wigs and extensions







Do Superheroes Brush Their Teeth? 
Imagine what superheroes do when they are not fighting crime. Follow superheroes through their daily routine and see how superheroes are like regular people. From brushing their teeth in the morning to reading at night, find out what superheroes do when out of the limelight.







Brush Your Teeth, Brush Your Teeth: Brandon's Song for Healthy Teeth
Brushing your teeth can be a challenge for our little ones. Maybe your dear child is eating the toothpaste instead of brushing. Maybe they are just showing little interest in one of the most important activities to keep them healthy. Whatever your challenge may be, Brush Your Teeth! Brush Your Teeth! Brandon’s Song to Healthy Teeth makes brushing fun with Brandon in the morning and at night, as he sings, dances and cheers with Mommy and Daddy. Grab your toothbrush and come read and sing along! Let’s brush! 







Sugarbug Doug: All About Cavities, Plaque, and Teeth
Follow sugarbugs as they try to destroy your teeth and ruin your breath. Learn how to stop them so that you can keep your teeth healthy for your whole life. Sugarbug Doug is a children’s book written and illustrated by a dentist to help children learn what causes dental disease. When a child learns and applies the principles in this book, trips to the dentist will be less painful, less frequent, less expensive and more fun for the rest of their life.







I Don't Want to Wash My Hands!
From beloved children's author and illustrator Tony Ross, comes a fun to read and humorous take on the importance of handwashing.
The Little Princess does not want to wash her hands. After all, she's already washe her hands so many times!
She's washed her hands before eating and after going outside. She's washed her hands after sneezing and using the potty. Why should she wash her hands anymore?








Germs. The Invisible Fight: A Book About Germs for Kids, the Importance of Children Hand Washing and Creating Healthy Habits for Kids and Parents.
Children learn through fun. Make good hygiene an adventure, and they'll develop healthy habits for a lifetime.
All parents know that handwashing is the #1 thing you can do to prevent yourself from getting sick.
But teaching preschoolers the value of good hygiene can be a real challenge.
But never fear! Emma’s here!
Emma is just like any other kid: she loves to play outside and she has a BIG imagination.
She’s also a girl on a mission.
She’s on a quest to fight her invisible enemies: the germs lurking all over her house.







Savannah and her Squeaky Clean Hands: Helping friends and fighting germs
Germs don't stand a chance when Savannah is around, but when faced with a hard decision will
dirty hands be okay?
This fun loving children's book is perfect to inspire young readers. A great African American children's book for a classroom of diverse young readers.
Savannah will take your child on a journey to:
A MUST HAVE for parents and teachers struggling to teach the "How-To" of hand-washing and getting rid of germs.
Be prepared for your child to love helping others and love washing their hands even more!







Here comes a big germ walking: A Children's Book About Germs and Handwashing
Here comes a big germ walking. Germs are everywhere and we just can't seem to get rid of them. Readers follow the main character Steve as he helps his classmates get rid of an unexpected guest. The big germ book brings life to germs and teaches kids to wash their hands. This book is child-friendly with colorful illustrations, songs, humor, and teaches kids the importance of personal hygiene through hand washing.







Babaroo the Alien Learns about Hygiene: A Funny Children's Book about Healthy Habits and Rules of Hygiene
Babaroo comes to planet Earth again! In the third book of Babaroo Series our little alien has to learn about the importance of personal hygiene and its vital role in keeping bacteria, viruses and germs away and, thus, preventing illnesses.Children can be really difficult and stubborn when it comes to following hygiene rules and may throw temper tantrums even at such simple things as teeth brushing, hair combing, bathing or washing hands. This funny yet educational children’s book will help teach basic hygiene habits, while showing your toddlers how saddening the results of bad hygiene might be. Learning personal care will be so easy and funny with this vibrant picture book for preschool kids!







Teach Your Dragon Good Hygiene: Help Your Dragon Start Healthy Hygiene Habits. A Cute Children Story To Teach Kids Why Good Hygiene Is Important Socially and Emotionally. (My Dragon Books)
Having a pet dragon is very fun!
He can sit, roll over, and play…
He can candle a birthday cake, lit a campfire, or so many other cool things…
But what if your dragon is having problems with personal hygiene?
What if he refuses to brush his teeth, claiming that his baby teeth would eventually fall out anyway?
What if he doesn’t want to wash his hands, seldom changes his clothes, and never cover up his nose when he has to sneeze?
What if he HATES taking a bath, arguing that the water is too hot, too cold, and soap gets in and hurts his eye?















DISCLAIMER: I am not an Occupational Therapist. I am an adult who has Sensory Processing Disorder, a sensory parent and a Grandma. The information on this website is not medical advice and does not replace the information that your child's therapists give you. These are just ideas and information that I have learned myself over the years of being a parent and an adult living with SPD. If you are concerned for your child, please always seek medical attention through a family doctor, pediatrician or therapist. This website is for suggestions and informational purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different needs. Please always consult with a professional.

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