As the leaves turn golden in Kawartha Lakes, our wardrobes need a gentle shift too.

For many autistic kids, the change from t-shirt weather to layered fall outfits can feel confusing - or even uncomfortable. With a little creativity, patience, and sensory awareness, you can help make this seasonal swap feel calm and secure.

1. Use Visual Supports & Teaching Stories

Changing clothes isn’t just about fabric - it’s a routine shift. Visual aids, like photos or illustrated charts, can make that change feel clearer. Consider creating a personalized "clothing story":

“Summer clothes go in the bin until next year. Fall clothes come out.”
Use simple sentences and pictures, like shirt, pants, and bins, paired with a smile or thumbs-up.
Let your child follow along, choose what to wear from the visuals, and feel in control.

2. Offer Choice & Build Small Steps

Autistic children often feel more comfortable when they have control. Offer just a couple of garment choices each morning:

Let them pick between two shirts or two pairs of pants.
Begin with short steps: touching a fall sweater one day, wearing it for a minute the next, then longer as comfort grows - gradual exposure works wonders.

3. Pair Tasks with Warm Encouragement

Transitions are easier with positive energy. If your child helps pack away summer clothes, follow up with immediate praise - or a favourite song, snack, or sticker:

"Thank you for helping with the shorts - now you can pick a comfy fall top!"
Keep the tone light, warm, and affirming.

4. Choose Sensory-Friendly Fabric & Design

Fall clothing can mean heavier layers - but that doesn’t have to mean uncomfortable layers:

Opt for soft, tag-free shirts and seam-free pants.
Consider fabrics like cotton, modal, or bamboo - gentle and breathable for sensitive skin.

5. Lean Into Snug or Compression Wear

Some kids find comfort in clothing that feels close or snug - this extra pressure can be calming, especially during transitions:

Try compression tees, tights, or a lightweight vest that gives gentle proprioceptive feedback.
These items can ease the shift into heavier clothes by giving a grounding sensation your child might welcome.

6. Be Calm, Consistent & Compassionate

Consistency is key when introducing change:

Use consistent language - e.g., say “not available” instead of “no,” to avoid resistance.
If a fall sweater is off-limits, don’t reintroduce it to stop a meltdown. Better to stay calm, repeat gently, and keep the structure supportive and predictable.

7. Stay Curious & Observe Sensory Responses

Every child is unique. Watch what clothing they gravitate toward - or avoid - and adjust accordingly:

Some kids prefer tight items for regulation; others like loose and flowing clothes.
Notice textures or seams that consistently cause discomfort - and remove or modify them (e.g., snip tags, replace itchy seams).
Your observations can guide future garment choices and help prevent stress.

Why These Tips Matter

They honour sensory needs and transitions as real, impactful experiences - not just practical routines.
They give kids control over what feels safe, building independence and confidence.
They foreground warmth, predictability, and compassion - so fall feels like a season of change with care, not stress.

Gentle Ways to Ease the Transition from Summer to Fall Clothing