Our body processes millions of sensory events a day. Some with the intensity of a freight train and others like the drop of a feather. Our nervous systems job is to take in everything and organize it, allowing us to live in a meaningful and consistent manner. For many, this process is completed seamlessly. But for other sensory input can often be overwhelming and distressing. Our children process the world around them differently, and in order to best support them it is important to meet them with curiosity…
What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory Processing is how our nervous system takes in information using our senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and hearing), proprioception (body awareness), and vestibular (balance and movement). Our nervous system first recognizes a stimulus, determines the intensity, comprehends and integrates, and responds. Once our nervous system understands the sensory information, it can respond accordingly. But not everyone’s nervous system functions the same. When children have difficulty processing sensory information this may be called Sensory Processing Disorder.
What is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurological condition in which the brain has difficulty effectively organizing and integrating sensory input. As a result, children may respond to sensory information in ways that are inconsistent or inappropriate, which can impact daily functioning. The presentation of sensory processing challenges varies widely from kid to kid, depending on their unique sensory profile.
Research suggests that sensory processing difficulties affect approximately 5–16% of school-aged children. While SPD is not currently recognized as a standalone diagnosis, sensory processing differences are commonly observed in individuals with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as well as other developmental, learning, and mood disorders.
Common Types?
Sensory Overresponsitivity
Children who experience sensory overresponsitivity are more sensitive to stimulation. They often feel sensations for too long, too intensely, or too easily. This may look like:
Picky eating
Sensitivity to bright light
Sensitivity to loud noises
Avoiding touching sticky or gooey
Issues with tags on clothes
Less likely to engage in spinning, climbing, or swinging
Frequent stomach aches
Overly sensitive to smells
Sensory Under Responsive
Children who experience under responsiveness to sensory input are often quiet and passive. They appear to not notice stimulation or require higher intensity to produce a response. This may look like:
Clumsiness
Less aware of temperature (hot/cold)
Loses place while reading
May not respond to being call
Eating spicy or hot food
Toilet accidents
Poor awareness of body space
Unaware of hunger cues
Sensory Seeking
Children who are sensory seeking are finding ways to pursue additional sensory input. Their nervous systems are typically underreactive and they have a high need for sensory input leading to the following behaviors:
Stand too close to someone or not have a sense of personal space
Have a high tolerance to pain
Constantly touch objects
Squirm, fidget, easily distracted
Chew on non-food related items like shirt sleeves
Play rough and take physical risks
Seek out or make loud noises
Enjoy movement like jumping, hopping or may crash into things
Like deep pressure
Hold objects with too much pressure
How can I support my kid?
The best way to support your child’s growth and development is to remain curious, patient, and understanding. Sensory processing differences are neurological, meaning children do not choose how their body responds to sensory input. Instead of trying to change these responses, your role is to help them better understand and manage them. As parents, caregivers, and clinicians, we can support children by providing the tools, strategies, and environments they need to feel regulated and successful. This includes meeting them with empathy, recognizing their unique sensory needs, and setting realistic expectations and boundaries that promote both growth and confidence.
Additional Information
Sensory Solutions- Over Responsive
Sensory Solutions- Under Responsive
