How do I help my child get dressed without battles? 

Parenting Perspective 

Understanding the Challenge 

Getting dressed can feel like a daily battlefield for many parents of children with additional needs. Some children find certain fabrics scratchy, seams uncomfortable or the transition from pyjamas to day clothes just too sudden to handle calmly. 

Understand Their Dislikes and Offer Choices 

Start by trying to understand what your child dislikes. Keep a calm note of which textures or types of clothing cause stress. Offering choices within limits can really help. For example, “Do you want the blue top or the green one?” gives your child a sense of control without overwhelming them. 

Use Visuals and Allow Extra Time 

Lay clothes out in the order they will be put on and use a simple visual chart if that helps your child know what comes next. Allow extra time in the morning so that getting dressed does not feel rushed. Some parents find that practising dressing skills when things are calm, such as before bedtime, can build confidence and make mornings smoother. 

Practical Solutions for Comfort 

Tag-free clothes, soft materials and easy fastenings can make a big difference in daily comfort. Praise every small step your child manages, whether it is pulling up socks or choosing an outfit. These little moments are worth celebrating. 

Try to stay calm during dressing battles. Forcing clothes onto a distressed child rarely helps and can make mornings feel tense for everyone. If sensory issues are very strong, consider speaking to an occupational therapist for extra ideas and support. 

Remember, this tricky phase does not mean you are failing. Helping your child learn this everyday skill with patience and gentle boundaries will build their confidence and independence for years to come. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam honours the care and practical love parents show, even in everyday tasks like dressing a child. Allah Almighty sees the patience behind each gentle reminder and every moment you hold back frustration for your child’s sake. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 286: 

‘Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear. ‘

This Ayah reminds you that these small daily trials are not beyond your capacity, your Sabr turns them into worship. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Be kind to children and perfect in your upbringing of them. ‘

This Hadith Shareef teaches us that even teaching everyday skills is part of fulfilling your trust as a parent. Make sincere Dua for patience and Barakah in your mornings. Speak words of calm encouragement: ‘We are doing this together.’ Remind your child that their struggles are not their fault, and yours are not either. Trust that Allah Almighty sees the battles no one else does: the extra minutes, the repeated instructions, the tears you swallow to keep the peace. May He grant you ease, reward your gentleness, and help your child grow in confidence and comfort, one small step at a time.