Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder
Does your child seem overly sensitive to certain sounds, textures, or lights? Or perhaps they crave constant movement and seek out strong sensory experiences? These could be signs of sensory processing disorder. Our pediatric occupational therapists at PediPlay in Indianapolis, IN use a holistic and patient-centered approach to address sensory processing disorders, help your child thrive, and support their well-being.
What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is how the brain receives and interprets information from the senses including touch, sight, sound, smell, taste, and movement. Some children with sensory processing difficulties may find certain sounds, textures, movements or lights overwhelming or unpleasant. On the other hand, some may seem unfazed by pain, temperature changes or loud noises. Others crave sensory experiences like spinning, jumping, or chewing on objects. These challenges can impact a child’s ability to participate in daily activities, socialize, and regulate their emotions.
- Overreact to sensory input: Find certain sounds, textures, movements or lights overwhelming or unpleasant, dislikes haircuts, washing hair, sensitive to certain smells, brushing teeth, difficulty getting relaxed at bedtime and trouble returning to sleep if awakened
- Underreact to sensory input: Seems unfazed by pain, temperature changes, or loud noises.
- Seek out sensory input: Crave intense experiences like spinning, jumping, or chewing on objects.
These challenges can impact a child’s ability to participate in daily activities, socialize, and regulate their emotions.
Signs of Sensory Processing Difficulties May Include:
- Consistently avoiding certain foods to where it interferes with mealtime success and/or nutrition
- Avoiding certain textures in clothing
- Difficulty tolerating haircuts, brushing teeth, clipping nails
- Difficulty tolerating bright lights or loud noises
- Craving movement (jumping, climbing, crashing, etc.) to where it interferes with completing tasks
- Chewing on objects or clothing
- Difficulties with attention, following directions, filtering out distractions in the environment
Regulating sensory input is essential to effective learning and increasing independence throughout daily activities. If you notice any sensory processing difficulties with your child, contact your doctor to see if a referral to occupational therapy would be appropriate. Our pediatric occupational therapists will work to evaluate your child’s sensory processing needs and develop a personalized treatment plan.
How Can Occupational Therapy Help?
Our holistic SPD treatments go beyond sensory desensitization or integration activities. We consider your child’s unique needs and for use a combination of therapies to get the best results, including:
Sensory Integration Activities
Play-based activities to help your child process sensory information more effectively.
Self-Regulation Strategies
Techniques to manage overwhelming sensory experiences and regulate emotions.
Environmental Modifications
Adapting your home and daily routines to create a more sensory-friendly environment.
Parental Education
We provide guidance and strategies to support your child’s progress at home.