Sensory processing disorder is when children have difficulties receiving, organizing, processing, and responding to information through the senses. Kids can be overly sensitive to sensory input, undersensitive, or both, which can significantly impact learning and everyday life. 

To understand Sensory Processing Disorder, first, we have to grasp the concept of sensory processing/integration:

Sensory Processing, also known as Integration, is the registration and interpretation of sensory input in the environment, including one’s own body. It is how the brain receives, interprets, and responds to sensory inputs to behave functionally and adequately. Sensory processing leads to sensory regulation, balancing one’s energy, emotions, and attention to achieve an appropriate state of calmness and alertness for the child’s optimal functioning.

Sensory processing disorder is when the sensory information is not processed or ‘integrated’ correctly, affecting a child’s ability to carry out day-to-day activities.

What are the signs of SPD?

Some commonly observed signs are if the child:

• Has trouble focusing or sitting still and moves around a lot
• Gets overwhelmed by people and places
• Has unusual reactions to light or noise
• Has a strong reaction to specific foods and textures 
• Becomes picky about the choice of clothes and shoes that are often “too itchy and scratchy” or “too tight.”
• Is a little clumsy compared to other kids their age
• Has difficulty with fine motor skills like holding a pencil
• Might be prone to tantrums or meltdowns for no apparent or valid reason
• Experiencing food textures makes them gag
• Is afraid to play on the swings
• Seems to be bothered by sounds that others simply don’t notice
• May reject any form of physical contact, whether it’s a hug or a handshake
• May not be able to tolerate being barefoot on sand or grass, or certain clothing textures
• May tend to touch everything around them. It’s not uncommon to see a child with SPD touching strangers.
• Does not notice pain or is slow to respond when hurt
• Frequently puts things in their mouth
• Is irritated by tags on clothes
•  Demonstrates excessive caution or fear when trying new things
• Is easily distracted by background noises such as a lawnmower outside, an air conditioner, a refrigerator, or buzz from fluorescent lights
• Struggles with toe and fingernail cutting or haircuts
• Dislikes having messy hands
• Rarely eats the same meal as the rest of family
• Craves rough-housing, tackling, or wrestling games
• Seems overly distracted in the classroom or when learning new tasks 
• Seems to have delayed motor skills

What Should I Do If I Suspect That My Child Has Sensory Processing Issues?

If your child is experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should consult a doctor or an occupational therapist.

If it shows that your child has sensory processing issues, remember that you and your child are not alone. A 2009 study suggests that one in every six children faces sensory problems that influence their daily functioning and learning. Note that while sensory processing issues are frequently seen in children with autism, many kids who are NOT on the autism spectrum also experience them.

How Can Occupational Therapy Help?

Occupational therapists evaluate children’s sensory profile and skills to determine which stimuli they are sensitive to, then work with the child and family to develop appropriate coping mechanisms and treatment plans. 

We may also discuss the possible changes with your child’s teacher to help them be more comfortable and focused in the classroom.

As for the therapeutic approach, we usually use a play-based sensory integration approach to provide a safe environment for children to experience various stimuli. Therapeutic sensory activities include sensory play, swinging, climbing, therapeutic brushing, jumping, water play, varied textures, and surface exposure, and navigating an obstacle course.