Autistic children during monsoon: From loud sound of rain to wet clothes, here's how to avoid triggers

Heavy rain soaking rooftops, windows or a tin shed can be deafening to a child with auditory sensitivity (Image: Pexels)

The monsoon season appears to be a relief for most people in many parts of the world — for many there may be the smell of fresh earth, the sound of rain, and the cooling effect of monsoon rains following intense summer heat. However, for children with autism, the onset of monsoon could be distressing.

Most autistic children and individuals will have varied sensory experiences. Many experiences will be heightened or even altered. Sensory experiences can include sounds, smells, textures, and visual attributes. All experiences can be amplified with rainy weather.

Says Dr Neha Rao, a developmental pediatrician and autism expert from Bengaluru, “Monsoon sensory triggers are really a thing for many children on the spectrum. What many need is a supportive environment to help meet their unique sensory needs and supportive transition effort for success.”

• Loud sound of rain and thunder: Heavy rain soaking rooftops, windows or a tin shed can be deafening to a child with auditory sensitivity. When the sounds of rain are coupled with unexpected thunder the situation is unbearable, often leading to panic, meltdowns or retreating to a safe quiet space.

What can help: Noise cancelling headphones or creating a calming indoor space with soft music or white noise can reduce auditory overload.

• Wet clothes and humidity: Many autistic children are very sensitive to the feel of things on their skin. During monsoon, clothes get wet, sticky, or cold. These are very distressing sensations. Persistent humidity not only gets clothing wet but also affects everything fabric, bedding or other textile-based things, making them uncomfortable even indoors.

What can help: Wear breathable, quick dry clothing and even more importantly, always have spare clothes for them. Change bed sheets, or towels on a very frequent basis and dry them using a a fan, or a dryer.

• Strong odours: The smell of wet dirt (petrichor), a mouldy corner, or closed-in space can be very unpleasant for kids who are sensitive to smell. While others may find these smells quite pleasant, they often can make children who are sensitive to smell feel nauseous or irritated.

What can help: Make sure there is adequate ventilation in the home, and try natural fragrances like lavender or lemon to neutralize musty smells — avoid strong scents.

• Light changes and visual overload: Lightning flashes, dark lighting during nasty storms, and power cuts can create enormous distress for kids who are sensitive to changes in light. Constantly changing light levels and a darkened space can feel disconcerting and disorienting.

What can help: Use soft lights or battery-operated lights indoors or add fairy lights to share a visual atmosphere indoors. Black out curtains for the lightning storms also help.

• Disruption of routine and outdoor play: Children with autism often depend on routine. Monsoon disrupts daily patterns — from school commutes to outdoor playtime. Staying indoors for long periods can lead to irritability and restlessness.

What can help: Maintain a predictable indoor schedule with sensory-friendly activities, board games, indoor swings, or yoga to provide structure and stimulation.

• Slippery surfaces and fear of falling: Slippery floors can trigger anxiety, especially in children with balance or proprioception issues. Wet tiles or muddy entrances can increase their fear of falling or losing control.

What can help: Use anti-slip mats, dry shoes and floors regularly, and allow barefoot walking if it gives them more grip and comfort.