Understanding Sensory Sensitivities: Why 'TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day' Is a Must-Read for Children and Adults
Book Review: "TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day" by Jolene Gutiérrez
In our fast-paced, sensory-rich world, it's all too easy to forget that not everyone experiences it the same way. For children with sensory sensitivities, like those on the autism spectrum, everyday experiences can be overwhelming. Understanding and empathizing with their unique perspectives is crucial, and that's where books like “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” by Jolene Gutiérrez, with illustrations by Angel Chang, come into play. In this blog post, we'll delve into why this book is a must-read for both children and adults and explore the profound importance of understanding children with sensory sensitivities, also known as Sensory Processing Disorder or SPD.
What This Book Offers and Reasons to Include It in Your Family Library or Classroom:
1. Fostering Empathy
Empathy is a fundamental trait that helps us connect with one another. Through the pages of “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day,” readers of all ages are invited into the world of a child experiencing sensory overload. The rhythmic and comforting narrative allows readers to empathize with the main character's feelings of being overwhelmed. For children, this can be an eye-opening experience, helping them realize that it's okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. For adults, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and validating these emotions in children.
2. Normalizing Sensory Processing Disorder
One of the most powerful aspects of “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” is its ability to normalize sensory sensitivities. Children with sensory processing challenges often feel like outsiders, struggling to convey their experiences to others. This book reassures them that they are not alone in their sensory struggles, creating a sense of belonging and understanding. It sends a message that it's perfectly acceptable to have days when the world feels like “too much.”
3. Teaching Coping Strategies
Amidst the beautifully illustrated pages of this book, a vital lesson is imparted: coping strategies. The story demonstrates that even in the midst of sensory overload, it's possible to find calm by pausing and taking a deep breath. This simple yet profound message can empower children to manage their overwhelming sensory experiences and equip them with lifelong skills for emotional regulation.
4. Awareness and Acceptance
Promoting awareness and acceptance of sensory processing issues is essential to creating an inclusive and compassionate society. Books like “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” contribute significantly to these efforts by offering a glimpse into the sensory experiences of others. Understanding and acceptance reduce stigma and misconceptions, fostering an environment where every child feels seen and valued.
5. Support for Caregivers and Educators
What makes “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” even more invaluable is that at the end of the book, the author provides tangible tips and strategies for parents, caretakers, and teachers of kids with sensory sensitivities. This resource-packed author's note offers insights into sensory systems, sensory processing challenges, and practical approaches to support children in their journey of managing sensory overload or sensory needs. It's an invaluable guide for adults seeking to create a more nurturing and accommodating environment for these children.
6. Promoting Inclusivity
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of a compassionate society. “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” encourages discussions about sensory differences and how to respect and support them. By reading and discussing this book, families, classrooms, and communities can take meaningful steps toward creating a more inclusive world.
7. Building Resilience
Teaching children how to cope with sensory sensitivities isn't just about the here and now; it's about building resilience for a lifetime. Equipping children with tools to navigate a sensory-rich world instills confidence and empowers them to face challenges head-on.
Ultimately, “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” is a book that holds profound significance in today's society. It serves as an essential resource for promoting empathy, understanding, and support for children with sensory sensitivities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. By reading and sharing this book, we take a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world—one where every child's unique sensory experiences are acknowledged and respected, and where caregivers and educators are armed with practical strategies to provide the support these children need to thrive.
Buy it here.
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Meet Jolene Gutiérrez, an award-winning teacher-librarian with an impressive 28-year tenure at Denver Academy, where she has been working with diverse learners. Jolene's journey to this role was shaped by her own unique experiences. As a child, she instinctively shielded her eyes from bright lights and protected her ears from loud noises. Today, she continues to manage her sensory sensitivities by wearing sunglasses outdoors and carrying earplugs when needed.
Interestingly, Jolene's path to understanding sensory processing challenges in her own children was not immediate, as their struggles manifested differently from her own. However, she has taken this journey as an opportunity to raise awareness and support for caregivers and educators dealing with similar challenges. Her book, “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” aims to assist caregivers and educators in recognizing and aiding children facing sensory processing issues.
For more insights and resources, you can visit her website at www.jolenegutierrez.com and follow her on Instagram.
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Meet Angel Chang, who was once a young girl grappling with intense emotions, often feeling like she didn't quite fit in because of it. Her own journey of self-discovery taught her a valuable lesson – that her feelings are just as important as anyone else's.
Angel is not only a gifted illustrator, known for her work on books like "Most of the Better Natural Things in the World," "Just Like Me," and "Lunar New Year Around the World," but also a resident of Taiwan. She shares her home with a mischievous cat who has a penchant for chewing on papers and snuggling up on books.
Through her work, Angel hopes to empower young readers to recognize and value their own emotions. To discover more about her art and adventures, you can visit her website at angelchangart.com. Follow her on Instagram.
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08/01/2023
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32 (Short Read)
