Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) occurs when the brain struggles to organise and respond to sensory information. These senses include touch, taste, sight, sound, and smell, as well as movement (vestibular) and body awareness (proprioception). Understanding sensory overload in kids is critical because their reactions often differ significantly from what is expected in typical situations.
SPD doesn’t just involve being overly sensitive. It also includes behaviours like sensory-seeking, where children actively crave certain stimuli. For instance, some children may enjoy spinning in circles repeatedly or seek out noisy environments. Other children may display a mix of behaviours, such as being sensitive to certain stimuli while craving others.
According to research, 1 in 6 children face sensory processing challenges that disrupt their daily routines. These challenges can make simple activities like eating, playing, or getting dressed seem overwhelming. Recognising sensory processing issues in children early is essential for helping them thrive.
Related: 10 Early Symptoms For Neurodiveristy
Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) in Children
Recognising SPD requires understanding the specific behaviours children might display. These behaviours typically fall into two categories: sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding. Let’s break down the signs.
Sensory-Seeking Behaviours
- Excessive jumping, spinning, or climbing beyond what’s typical for their age.
- Loud vocalisations or seeking noisy environments, such as tapping or banging objects.
- Frequent touching of surfaces, objects, or people, showing a need to explore textures.
Sensory-Avoiding Behaviours
- Dislike certain fabrics or clothing, such as refusing to wear socks or tags.
- Aversion to loud sounds, such as vacuum cleaners or alarms.
- Avoiding messy activities like finger painting, sand play, or eating certain foods.
Mixed Behaviours
Some children may display a combination of these traits. For instance, they might enjoy deep pressure hugs but dislike being touched lightly or unexpectedly. These mixed signals can be confusing for parents but are common in SPD. How to identify sensory sensitivities in children becomes important in such cases to help guide appropriate interventions.
Additional Red Flags
- Difficulty with motor skills, such as riding a bike or cutting with scissors.
- Becoming overwhelmed in busy environments like shopping centres or birthday parties.
- Unusual reactions to smells or tastes, including gagging or refusing certain foods.
These signs are often subtle initially, but consistent patterns can help identify potential sensory processing disorder symptoms.
Why Early Recognition Matters
The earlier you recognise sensory challenges, the sooner you can provide your child with tools to navigate them. Early signs of sensory processing problems, if unaddressed, can affect many aspects of a child’s life, including their relationships, school performance, and self-esteem.
Developmental Impact
Children with SPD may struggle to achieve developmental milestones. For example, delayed fine motor skills can frustrate writing or tying shoelaces. These challenges can lead to feelings of inadequacy or social withdrawal without intervention.
Emotional Well-Being
Sensory overload often leads to meltdowns, which are not tantrums but genuine reactions to overwhelming stimuli. When these reactions are misunderstood, children may feel ashamed or unsupported. Recognising sensory issues in children helps parents address these moments with empathy rather than frustration.
The Role of Therapy
Early intervention therapies, like Occupational Therapy, use sensory integration techniques to help children process input more effectively. These therapies are vital in helping children with sensory processing challenges improve daily functioning and reduce anxiety in sensory-rich environments.
Related: 10 Early Symptoms For Neurodiveristy
Common Sensory Challenges in Everyday Life
SPD doesn’t just affect isolated activities—it influences daily routines, social interactions, and learning environments. Understanding these challenges helps parents make informed adjustments to support their children.
Social Interaction
Children with sensory challenges may avoid playing with peers because they feel overstimulated by noise, movement, or touch. For example, a child might shy away from tag games because of the unpredictability of being touched. This highlights the importance of parenting a child with sensory processing disorder in a way that fosters social skills while respecting their sensitivities.
Learning Environments
Classrooms are full of sensory stimuli, from the buzz of fluorescent lights to the hum of chatter. Children with SPD might find it difficult to focus or even sit still. These challenges can lead to misinterpretation of their sensory processing disorder and behaviour in children as inattentiveness or defiance.
Daily Routines
Simple tasks like brushing teeth or putting on shoes can become battles. For example, a child may refuse toothpaste because of its texture or resist wearing socks due to the seams. How to identify sensory sensitivities in children during such routines helps parents adapt and create a more sensory-friendly environment.
Physical Challenges
Many children with SPD struggle with body awareness, leading to clumsiness or difficulty navigating spaces. For instance, they might frequently bump into furniture or avoid climbing stairs because of balance issues.
Tips for Parents to Identify Sensory Processing Issues
Parents are the first to notice patterns in their child’s behaviour. Here are steps for parenting a child with sensory processing disorder effectively:
- Observe Carefully
Take note of when your child seems uncomfortable or unusually active. Is it during meals? While getting dressed? Pay attention to recurring triggers. - Document Behaviours
Keeping a journal of your child’s behaviours can help identify trends. For example, note what happened before and after a meltdown. These details are invaluable for professionals. - Try Sensory Activities
Introduce activities like sensory bins filled with rice or play dough. Watch how your child reacts to different textures, movements, and sounds. - Communicate with Others
Talk to teachers or caregivers to get a fuller picture of your child’s behaviour in different settings. Consistent patterns across environments may indicate sensory issues in children.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, sensory challenges go beyond what parents can manage at home. Here’s when to consider professional support:
- Daily Life Impact: If sensory issues disrupt meals, bedtime, or social interactions.
- Frequent Meltdowns: If your child becomes overwhelmed regularly, even in familiar settings.
- Developmental Delays: If motor skills, speech, or other milestones seem delayed.
Therapies like ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis) or Occupational Therapy focus on helping children develop coping strategies. Professionals can create individualised plans to address your child’s unique needs and help with sensory sensitivities in children.
Helping Your Child Thrive with Sensory Processing Issues
Children with SPD can lead fulfilling lives with understanding and the right tools. Here’s how you can support them:
Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment
- Use dimmable lights or noise-cancelling headphones to reduce overwhelming stimuli.
- Provide sensory-friendly toys, like weighted blankets or chewable jewellery, to help them self-regulate.
Work with Educators
- Share your observations with teachers so they can adapt the classroom environment.
- Request sensory breaks during school hours to help your child recharge.
Celebrate Small Wins
- Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small, to boost your child’s confidence.
Related: 10 Early Symptoms For Neurodiveristy
FAQs About Sensory Processing Issues
Can children outgrow sensory processing disorder?
Some children develop coping mechanisms as they grow older. However, early intervention ensures better long-term outcomes.
How does SPD differ from autism?
While SPD can coexist with autism, it also occurs independently. Both conditions require different approaches to treatment.
About NeuroSense Behaviour
As a parent, understanding your child’s sensory experiences can be key to helping them thrive. Sensory issues, such as being overly sensitive to lights, sounds, or textures, can impact a child’s behavior, focus, and emotional well-being. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for providing the right support.
At NeuroSenseBehaviour, we specialize in identifying and addressing sensory issues through personalized therapies tailored to each child’s needs. Our expert team is here to guide you and provide the tools necessary for your child’s development and comfort. If you suspect your child may be struggling with sensory sensitivities, don’t wait—contact us today to Free schedule a consultation. Together, we can unlock your child’s full potential and help them navigate the world more confidently.
Reach out to NeuroSenseBehaviour now for the support your child deserves!
Mawissh Shamim Clinical Psychologist
Mawissh Shamim is a dedicated UK licensed clinical psychologist committed to supporting neurodivergent individuals. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Karachi, where she developed a strong foundation in psychological theories and practices. To further enhance her expertise, Mawissh pursued advanced certifications, including becoming an International Behavioural Analyst (IBA) accredited by the International Behavioural Organisation.