October: A Month of Awareness for Eczema and Sensory Needs

October is a significant month for many families worldwide, bringing with it a dual focus on Eczema Awareness and World Sensory Awareness Month, also known as National Sensory Processing Awareness Month. For families navigating the challenges of sensitive skin and unique sensory needs, this month serves as a crucial reminder to foster understanding, support, and comfort for our little ones. At Honey & Stitch, we are proud to champion these important causes.

Understanding Eczema Awareness

While specific regional observances for Eczema Awareness may vary, October is widely recognised globally as Eczema Awareness Month [1]. This broad recognition provides an excellent opportunity to highlight the impact of eczema on children and families, and to share valuable insights into managing this common skin condition. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often appears in early childhood and can persist into adulthood, affecting millions globally [2].

The Impact of Eczema

Eczema can significantly impact a child's quality of life. The persistent itching can lead to disturbed sleep, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. For parents, managing a child's eczema can be a source of stress and frustration, as they seek ways to alleviate their child's discomfort. The condition can also affect a child's self-esteem, particularly if visible patches of eczema lead to self-consciousness or social challenges.

Common Triggers and Management Strategies

Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by a variety of factors, including environmental allergens (like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander), irritants (such as harsh soaps, detergents, and certain fabrics), food sensitivities, stress, and changes in temperature or humidity. Effective management often involves a multi-faceted approach:

• Moisturising: Regular and generous application of emollients helps to restore the skin's barrier function and lock in moisture.
• Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and minimising exposure to known triggers is crucial.
• Topical Treatments: Corticosteroid creams or other prescribed medications can help reduce inflammation during flare-ups.
• Gentle Skincare: Using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and avoiding long hot baths.
• Clothing Choices: Opting for soft, breathable fabrics that do not irritate the skin.

Embracing World Sensory Awareness Month (National Sensory Processing Awareness Month)

October is also World Sensory Awareness Month, also known as National Sensory Processing Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and sensory sensitivities [3]. Sensory processing refers to the way our nervous system receives, organises, and responds to sensory information from our environment and our own bodies. For many children, this process can be atypical, leading to challenges in daily life.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

Children with SPD may have difficulty processing sensory information effectively. This can manifest in various ways:

• Sensory Over-responsivity: Children may be overly sensitive to certain stimuli, reacting strongly to sounds, textures, lights, or smells that others find tolerable. For example, a tag in clothing might feel like sandpaper, or a loud noise might be perceived as painful.
• Sensory Under-responsivity: Conversely, some children may be under-responsive, appearing to not notice sensory input or requiring intense stimulation to register it. They might seek out strong flavours, crash into objects, or not react to pain.
• Sensory Seeking: Children might constantly seek out specific sensory experiences, such as spinning, touching everything, or making loud noises.

These differences in sensory processing can impact a child's ability to learn, play, socialise, and perform everyday tasks. It can lead to frustration, anxiety, and behavioural challenges.

Supporting Children with Sensory Needs

Supporting a child with sensory needs involves understanding their unique sensory profile and creating an environment that helps them regulate their responses. Key strategies include:

• Observation and Understanding: Paying close attention to what triggers a child's sensory sensitivities or what sensory input they seek.
• Sensory Diet: Working with an occupational therapist to develop a personalised sensory diet of activities that help regulate their nervous system.
• Environmental Modifications: Adjusting lighting, reducing noise, and providing quiet spaces can help children who are over-responsive. For under-responsive children, providing opportunities for safe sensory exploration can be beneficial.
• Clothing Choices: Selecting clothing made from soft, seamless, and breathable materials can significantly reduce discomfort for children with tactile sensitivities.

Honey & Stitch: Thoughtful Comfort for Sensitive Skin and Sensory Needs

At Honey & Stitch, we understand the profound impact that eczema and sensory sensitivities can have on a child's well-being and a family's daily life. Our mission, born from personal experience, is to provide award-winning, eczema and sensory-friendly clothing that offers unparalleled comfort and peace of mind [4].

We believe that children with sensitive skin and unique sensory needs deserve clothing that supports their comfort and allows them to thrive. Our garments are thoughtfully designed with features that address common challenges faced by these children:

• OEKO-TEX® Certified Bamboo Fabric: Our clothing is crafted from incredibly soft and breathable bamboo fabric, which is OEKO-TEX® certified, ensuring it is free from harmful substances. This gentle material minimises irritation and allows the skin to breathe, crucial for managing eczema.
• 100% Mulberry Silk Mittens: A standout feature in our onesies and pyjamas is the inclusion of integrated mulberry silk mittens. Silk is naturally smooth and soft, helping to reduce skin damage from scratching, which is a common issue for children with eczema.
• Seamless and Gentle Construction: We prioritise designs that reduce seams and tags, which can be significant irritants for children with tactile sensitivities.
• Practical and Durable: Our clothing is not only comfortable but also designed to withstand the rigours of childhood, offering durability and ease of care for busy families.

This October, as we shine a light on Eczema Awareness and World Sensory Awareness Month (National Sensory Processing Awareness Month), we invite you to explore how thoughtful clothing choices can make a tangible difference in your child's comfort and confidence. Join us in celebrating a month dedicated to understanding, support, and creating a more comfortable world for all children.

References:

1. Eczema Association Australasia. Eczema Awareness.

2. Eczema Association Australasia. Understanding Eczema.

3. Miracle Babies Foundation. Sensory Processing Disorder

4. Honey & Stitch Australia. Award-Winning Eczema and Sensory-Friendly Clothing.