4 year old won't wear clothrs

[legcramp]

My 4 yr old refuses to wear only a dress. No panties no pants no shirts and as of today no socks or shoes.   Doesn't want to go outside at all because she must wear pants and shoes.  We have been having problems for the past month or two but it has now become severe.  We have done some research and it sounds similar to SPD. Has anyone else experienced this with their child. She becomes hysterical at the mention of putting on clothes of any kind or leaving the house. HELP.

[skepticalpeach]

I agree with specialmom, this is something an OT needs to help you with. Your child absolutely needs to wear enough clothing to go outside, but I understand this is not something you will want to constantly fight with her about. Are there certain types of fabrics that she prefers that she would wear? I know my daughter loves the feeling of silky fabrics and will gladly wear them over anything else.

[specialmom]

Hi there,  my son does have sensory processing disorder.  And issues with clothing are a hallmark sign.  Your child seems to be on the extreme side of this for sure and I'm sure this is challenging for you.  

My own son had trouble with various clothing things as well.  We did occupational therapy and the 'brushing protocol" which worked really well.  It definitely helped.  

Do you take your child to occupational therapy yet?  It helps with the things like oversensitivity you describe (tactile dysfunction) as well as things like emotional regulation (the over the top reactions).

One thing that also helps with clothing issues is to be mindful of preferences.  My son wouldn't wear something with a thick tag to save his life.  So, we go tagless for shirts.  He also does not like scratchy or hard or stiff material such as jeans.  He wears athletic pants to school.  When he was younger, we called them his 'silkies'.  ha.  And he is very particular about his socks.  We have one type he'll wear.  I stock up and get a whole bunch.  

so, think about what your daughter WILL wear or material she likes (flannel, brushed cotton, fleece, nylon are all usually comfy for kids).  

good luck