🧠 Why Tag Sensitivity Happens (OT Lens)

One morning, I was in a rush. I grabbed a shirt for my son, slipped it over his head…and within seconds, he was tugging, twisting, and shouting “It hurts!”

I ran my hand over the tag, and honestly? It did feel rough. That’s when I remembered: sensory sensitivity isn’t about overreaction, it’s about perception. Once I cut out the tag, he relaxed instantly.

Since then, we’ve worked slowly to build comfort with different fabrics and sensations—and now he can wear just about anything without a fuss. Progress doesn’t come from forcing…it comes from understanding and exposure with safety.

Some children have tactile hypersensitivity, meaning their sensory system is more reactive to textures, pressure, or fabrics. This can show up as:

• Pulling at clothes, socks, or sleeves
  

• Avoiding new outfits or crying when dressed
  

• Refusing shoes, hats, or tight waistbands
  

• Melting down at clothing seams or itchy fabrics
  

It’s not just a “texture thing.” The brain’s tactile system plays a huge role in comfort, focus, and regulation. When it’s overloaded, kids can feel unsafe or distracted by constant discomfort.

As occupational therapists, our goal isn’t to “toughen them up”… it’s to build tolerance safely so clothes feel like background noise, not sensory overload.

🛠️ Gentle Exposure Routine

Here’s a gradual way to help your child build tolerance without power struggles:

1️⃣ Start Small

Begin with soft, familiar fabrics your child already likes (like cotton pajamas). Slowly introduce new textures for just a few minutes a day.

2️⃣ Let Them Play With Fabrics

Turn exposure into play—make a “texture bin” with clothing scraps or socks of different materials. Let them explore by touching, rubbing, or wrapping them around stuffed animals.

3️⃣ Practice Layering

Use a preferred fabric as a “buffer layer”—a soft undershirt beneath a less comfortable top. Over time, slowly remove that barrier.

4️⃣ Involve Them in Choices

Let your child pick their clothes. Having control increases confidence and reduces resistance.

5️⃣ Celebrate Small Wins

Even wearing a new shirt for 5 minutes is progress. Celebrate comfort, not compliance.

🔬 Why It Works

Desensitization works best through gradual, safe exposure. By pairing new sensations with comfort and play, the brain learns, “This isn’t dangerous.”

Over time, what once triggered discomfort becomes tolerable—or even enjoyable.

You’re not just helping them wear clothes without tears—you’re teaching their body how to feel safe in the world.

Momma Check In

Every kid’s sensory world is a little different, and I’d love to hear yours.

Which one sounds most like your child?

1️⃣ Total meltdown – Tags are public enemy number one.
2️⃣ Mild discomfort – We just cut out the itchy ones.
3️⃣ Occasional complaints – Depends on the fabric or the day.
4️⃣ No issues here – Bring on the sequins and denim!

👉 Hit reply and tell me which number fits your child best.
I’ll tally the responses and share what most parents said in next week’s edition!

_{Disclaimer: The content in Mom on the Clock is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental, or therapeutic advice. Every child is unique—always seek the advice of your pediatrician, occupational therapist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or developmental concern. When in doubt, trust your instincts and seek personalized guidance}