15 | Sensory Processing Strategies & Regulation | Catie Sondrol
Many parents hear the term “sensory processing” while researching autism, ADHD, or developmental differences, but understanding what it actually means can feel confusing at first.
In this episode of the Autism Family Toolkit Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with occupational therapist Catie Sondrol about sensory processing, sensory regulation, and how families can better understand the behaviors and experiences they may be seeing at home, school, or in the community.
Catie breaks down sensory processing in a practical and approachable way while helping parents understand how sensory systems influence attention, emotions, routines, movement, eating, behavior, and everyday regulation.
This conversation offers families a deeper understanding of why some children seek sensory input, avoid sensory experiences, or become overwhelmed by environments that others may not notice.
Listen to the Full Episode
This episode is especially helpful for parents trying to better understand sensory behaviors, emotional regulation, sensory seeking, sensory overload, or how to create supportive routines at home.
Memorable Quote
“You have to put on this detective hat and go digging for the real why.”
In This Episode We Discuss
• What sensory processing difficulties may look like
• Why sensory processing and behavior are connected
• The difference between sensory seeking and sensory avoiding
• Understanding vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive systems
• Hyper-sensitive and hypo-sensitive sensory responses
• Creating a sensory lifestyle at home
• Why play is important for sensory development
• Supporting regulation through movement and routines
Key Themes From the Conversation
Sensory Processing Is About How the Brain Organizes Information
Catie explains that sensory processing involves how the brain receives, organizes, and responds to information from both the environment and the body itself.
When sensory input becomes overwhelming, confusing, or difficult to process, children may react through behaviors that look like avoidance, shutdown, fleeing, emotional outbursts, or sensory-seeking actions.
Sensory Needs Are Different for Every Child
One child may avoid loud noises while another constantly seeks movement and crashing activities. Some children may be highly sensitive to clothing textures or food textures, while others crave touch or movement input.
Catie emphasizes that sensory processing is not “one-size-fits-all,” and many children have a mix of sensory preferences and sensitivities.
A Sensory Lifestyle Is Ongoing
Instead of viewing sensory supports as temporary activities, Catie encourages families to think about creating a “sensory lifestyle.”
This means building sensory supports naturally into routines, movement, play, school activities, and everyday life in ways that help children stay regulated and organized.
Common Questions Parents Ask
What are sensory processing difficulties?
Sensory processing difficulties happen when the brain has trouble organizing or responding to sensory input from the body or environment. This can affect emotions, attention, movement, eating, routines, and behavior.
Why does my child constantly crash, jump, or seek movement?
Some children seek proprioceptive or vestibular input because those sensory experiences help their nervous systems feel more organized or regulated.
Can sensory processing affect neurotypical children too?
Yes. Everyone has sensory preferences and sensory needs. Neurodivergent children may experience sensory differences more intensely, but sensory regulation exists for all people.
Why This Conversation Matters for Families
Parents often feel confused when behaviors seem unpredictable or intense. This conversation helps families understand that sensory processing challenges are not simply “bad behavior.”
Understanding sensory needs can help parents better support regulation, communication, participation, and emotional safety for their children while reducing frustration for the entire family.
Resources Mentioned
About the Guest
Catie Sondrol is an occupational therapist and co-owner of Milemarkers Therapy in Arizona. She specializes in supporting children with sensory processing differences and helping families create practical sensory strategies for everyday life.
Related Resources for Parents
If you found this episode helpful, you may also enjoy these resources:
• Sensory Processing 101: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs
• Understanding Autism Meltdowns: What They Are and How to Support Your Child
• Positive Behavior Strategies for Neurodivergent Children at Home and School
• Creating a Supportive Home Environment for Pediatric Occupational Therapy
Explore more parent resources at:
https://pureheartstherapy.com/blog
