Sensory Processing 101: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs
Sensory Processing Explained
Most of us grow up learning that we have five senses—sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. But did you know we actually have more?
Vestibular sense – balance and movement
Proprioception – body awareness (knowing where your body is in space)
Sensory processing is how the nervous system receives input from these senses, then interprets and responds.
For many children, this happens automatically. But for some kids—especially those with developmental differences, autism, or ADHD—the sensory system may be over-sensitive or under-sensitive. This is often referred to as Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or sensory integration challenges.
Think of it like the brain’s “filter”:
Some filters let in too much, causing overwhelm.
Some filters block too much, leading to craving sensory input.
Sensory Profile: The “Avoider” (Over-Responsivity)
A child with heightened sensitivity may feel like their senses are “dialed up.”
Common signs include:
Easily startled by ordinary sounds (vacuum cleaner, hand dryers).
Covers ears or melts down in noisy spaces (cafeteria, birthday parties).
Picky about clothing: seams, tags, or fabrics feel painful; may refuse socks or shoes.
Very selective eater—not just picky, but avoiding entire textures (no crunchy foods, or gags on lumpy foods).
Avoids messy play (finger paint, mud, sand, even grass).
Sensitive to bright lights or strong smells.
Fearful of swings, high places, or motion; may get car sick easily.
Appears anxious or inflexible—because the world feels overwhelming.
👉 Recognizing these behaviors as sensory-driven is key. These children aren’t being “difficult”—their brains are flooded with sensory input.
Sensory Profile: The “Seeker” (Under-Responsivity)
A sensory seeker may have senses that feel “dialed down,” meaning they need more input to feel regulated.
Common signs include:
Constantly moving—spinning, running, crashing into couches or people.
Loves swinging high, climbing, or doing somersaults.
High pain tolerance—doesn’t cry much after bumps or cuts.
Touch-seeking: always touching others, enjoys messy play, may play rough.
Chews on non-food items (pencils, shirt collars) beyond toddler age.
Prefers strong flavors or extreme temperatures in food.
Makes loud noises for fun, turns up volume, unfazed by noise.
Struggles to sit still in class—sometimes mistaken for ADHD.
👉 Many kids are mixed, being sensitive in one sense but seeking in another. Careful observation is important.
Strategies for Sensory Challenges
For Sensory Avoiders
Use noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs in loud places.
Sunglasses or hats for bright environments.
Choose seamless clothing or remove tags; buy multiples of their favorite outfits.
Gradually introduce new sensations (e.g., start with dry rice before moving to wet sand).
Prepare for triggers (e.g., warn before a hand dryer is used).
Create a calm corner with dim light, cozy textures, and quiet space.
Use deep pressure input (weighted blankets, tight hugs, massage) to calm.
For Sensory Seekers
Start the day with movement (trampoline, animal walks, jumping).
Try weighted vests, compression shirts, or other proprioceptive supports.
Offer fidgets or chewable jewelry to replace unsafe habits.
Provide safe outlets: crash pads, swings, obstacle courses.
Enroll in active sports (gymnastics, swimming, martial arts).
Build movement breaks into routines (wall push-ups, big jumps after homework).
Offer “heavy work” jobs (pushing vacuum, carrying groceries).
For Both
Remember sensory needs fluctuate with stress, hunger, and fatigue.
Occupational therapists (OTs) can design a custom sensory diet to support your child.
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider reaching out to an occupational therapist if:
Sensory issues prevent daily activities (can’t tolerate clothing, limited diet, can’t participate in class).
Your child’s behaviors cause frequent meltdowns or avoidance of normal experiences.
You see overlapping challenges with autism, ADHD, or anxiety.
An OT can provide:
Direct sensory integration therapy.
Home and school strategies.
Recommendations for sensory-friendly tools and environments.
Support groups and parent communities can also be invaluable—offering real-life hacks for clothing, haircuts, or school accommodations.
Final Thoughts
Understanding sensory processing is like putting on a new set of glasses. Instead of seeing a child as “stubborn” or “hyper,” you begin to recognize the sensory world they’re navigating.
By adjusting the environment and teaching self-awareness, you can help your child:
Avoid overwhelm.
Seek safe outlets.
Learn to self-advocate as they grow.
With creativity, patience, and professional support when needed, daily life becomes less about battles—and more about comfort, joy, and connection.
Ready to apply it? 🤓
📞 Book your free 15-minute consultation to get personalized guidance.
📚 Read more on our blog for helpful articles, sensory-friendly ideas, and real-world strategies.
🎧 Listen to our podcast for expert insights and conversations with other families.
