Many “mystery meltdowns” are sensory events in disguise.
Children’s sensory systems are still developing. They take in more sound, light, texture, and movement than adults do, and filter less of it out. A birthday party, a public restroom, or a busy hotel lobby can overload their system long before an adult notices.
Common sensory stressors:
- Loud, echoing spaces
- Bright, flickering lights
- Unpredictable crowds
- Itchy fabrics or tags
- Strong smells
What looks like “overreaction” on the outside is often “overload” on the inside.
Research on sensory processing shows that some children are sensory‑sensitive (quickly overwhelmed), others sensory‑seeking (they crash, jump, and chew to feel regulated). Both need environments designed intentionally: quiet corners, clear exits, movement breaks, and permission to step away.
The question for adults shifts from “How do I get them to stay?” to “What do they need to stay regulated here?”
