For some children, getting dressed is more than just a routine—it can feel overwhelming, distressing, and even painful. If your child often refuses to wear certain fabrics, reacts strongly to tags or seams, or becomes anxious about tight or loose clothing, they may be experiencing sensory processing challenges. This article will help you understand why this happens and how occupational therapy in Singapore can provide support.
What Is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is the way the brain receives and responds to sensory information from the environment, such as touch, sound, and movement. Children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or sensory sensitivities may have trouble organizing and responding appropriately to these sensations. This can lead to overreactions or avoidance—especially with tactile stimuli like clothing.
In Singapore, SPD is not an official medical diagnosis under DSM-5, but it is widely recognised in occupational therapy settings as a legitimate challenge affecting daily functioning, especially for children with autism, ADHD, or developmental delays.
Why Is My Child Sensitive to Clothing?
Clothing sensitivities are typically due to tactile defensiveness, a type of sensory modulation disorder. A child might describe clothes as “scratchy,” “tight,” “itchy,” or simply unbearable. Common triggers include:
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Clothing tags and seams
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Tight waistbands or socks
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Certain materials like wool or polyester
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Loose or “floppy” clothing that moves too much on the skin
In Singapore’s warm and humid climate, heat and sweat can further aggravate discomfort, making sensory sensitivities even harder to manage.
How Occupational Therapy (OT) Can Help
Occupational therapists (OTs) are trained to assess and treat children with sensory challenges. An OT might use Sensory Integration Therapy, which helps children learn how to process sensory input in a more regulated way. For children sensitive to clothing, therapy could involve:
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Desensitization activities to help the child tolerate different textures
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Body awareness exercises like deep pressure or heavy work
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Developing sensory routines to make dressing easier
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Parent training to manage clothing challenges at home
Sensory-Friendly Clothing Options in Singapore
Some brands are designing clothing for sensory-sensitive kids, with features like flat seams, tagless labels, and breathable fabrics. In Singapore, you can look into:
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UNIQLO’s AIRism range – smooth and breathable, good for hot weather
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Marks & Spencer Adaptive Clothing – some options are tagless or have easy fasteners
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Amazon.sg or iHerb – offer international sensory-friendly brands like SmartKnitKIDS or Hanna Andersson
Practical Tips for Parents
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Let your child choose clothing: Giving them control reduces anxiety and increases comfort.
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Pre-wash new clothes to soften fabrics.
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Create a calming morning routine: Predictability can reduce stress during dressing.
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Layer with preferred clothing: Wearing a favorite soft shirt under school uniforms can help.
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Consult an OT early if challenges persist or impact daily routines.
Final Thoughts
Clothing sensitivity can be a daily struggle, but with the right support, children can learn to manage and overcome these challenges. Occupational therapy and sensory integration support can make a big difference in helping your child feel more comfortable, confident, and ready to take on the world—one shirt at a time. At Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre, we regularly support children who face difficulties with clothing, sound, movement, and other everyday sensations. Through occupational therapy (OT), we help children build tolerance and skills that allow them to participate more confidently in daily routines—including dressing and transitioning to school. Contact us for more information on our programmes or visit our site here.
