Sensory processing in children refers to the way their nervous system operates, in particular, how their nervous system interprets and responds to what’s happening around them. The information that the children receive comes through their five senses: sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. It also involves their body awareness and balance. When a child is successful with sensory processing it allows them to interact with others and navigate their surroundings effectively.
Some children have difficulties with sensory processing. It’s known as Sensory Processing Disorder or SPD. It can also be referred to as Sensory Integration Dysfunction.
Sensory Processing Disorder
It can show up as heightened sensitivity, diminished sensitivity, or seeking out sensory. SPD can involve a range of sensory-related challenges that can affect a person’s daily interactions.
Sensory Integration Dysfunction
It refers to a person’s ability to integrate or organize sensory information effectively. People with SID were believed to have issues processing and responding to sensory input in a coordinated and appropriate way. This is an older term. Many professionals prefer to use Sensory Processing Disorder.
Challenges That May Arise
Children with sensory processing difficulties may have some similar challenges and characteristics. Here are a few to look out for:
Sensory Over-Responsivity
Children with this characteristic are hypersensitive to sensory stimuli. They can become easily overwhelmed by everyday activities. Some children react strongly to certain surfaces, textures, noises, or lights.
Sensory Under-Responsivity
Some children can be hyposensitive. This means they can have a diminished response to sensory input. These children might not react appropriately to sensory cues, which in turn can impact their ability to engage in daily activities.
Sensory Seeking
Other children with SPD may seek out sensory stimulation by engaging in repetitive or self-stimulatory behaviors. It’s believed they do this to help fulfill their sensory needs. Actions associated with sensory seeking include rocking, spinning, or constantly touching objects.
Motor Skills Difficulties
Sensory processing can also impact a child’s motor skills development. This can manifest in the form of poor coordination, balance issues, or challenges with fine and gross motor skills.
Emotional and Behavioral Issues
Other characteristics include struggles with emotional regulation and behavioral challenges. You may notice a child has mood swings, anxiety, or meltdowns in response to sensory triggers.
Not all of these characteristics serve as an indication of a disorder. Some children have mild sensory preferences that don’t significantly impact their lives. However, if you notice that a child is struggling with severe sensory processing difficulties, you may want to seek evaluation from a healthcare professional. Make sure you reach out to a specialist who specializes in sensory processing disorders. When it comes to children, early intervention can be a meaningful help in improving their quality of life.
The Best Ways To Handle Sensory Processing Difficulties
You can handle sensory processing difficulties in children with a multifaceted approach. Any decision you make will likely depend on the child’s specific sensory challenges, age, and individual needs.
Pediatric Occupational Therapist
Consider consulting a pediatric occupational therapist. They specialize in addressing sensory processing difficulties in children. They can take a look at a child’s sensory needs and come up with a treatment plan.
Sensory-Friendly Environment
Come up with a sensory-friendly space that minimizes a child’s sensory overload. This space may allow you to have significant control over lighting, noise levels, and clutter.
Consistent Routine
When children have sensory processing difficulties, they can often benefit from a predictable daily routine. That consistency can provide them with a sense of security and help them to better anticipate sensory experiences.
Sensory Breaks
Consider allowing the child to take a break during the day to help them self-regulate. Breaks can look like time spent performing deep breath exercises, playing with sensory toys, or spending time in a designated sensory space.
Sensory Activities
Engage the child in sensory activities that match their sensory preferences. This can include finger painting, playdough, or water play. You might even introduce some new sensory experiences to help the child become desensitized to the specific sensory stimuli.
Each child is unique and may respond best to different strategies. It’s best to seek professional guidance from a healthcare professional.
Aprendo Creciendo: Helping Your Child Grow and Succeed
Therapy services offered at Aprendo Creciendo can help your child with sensory processing difficulties. We offer early stimulation sessions, occupational therapy consultations/evaluations, and development consultations. Let us become a resource for you and your child. We’re committed to helping you unlock your child’s full potential. Our clinic takes a holistic approach to development. We have a team of experienced therapists who specialize in speech, language, motor skills, sensory processing, feeding, and more.
Please contact us to learn more about how we can begin guiding you through this therapy journey with your child. Our friendly and passionate staff is waiting to hear from you!
