M0ec19054efb9ef0650ad08b96cc907c4a A Guide to Understanding and Supporting Your Child’s Sensory System M1ec19054efb9ef0650ad08b96cc907c4a

A Guide to Understanding and Supporting Your Child’s Sensory System

As parents, especially those raising neurodivergent children, it's important to understand sensory processing and how it affects our kids.

Sensory processing plays a big role in how children interact with the world, and when it doesn’t work smoothly, it can lead to behavior, emotional or learning issues.

Let’s take a look at what sensory processing is, signs of sensory dysfunction, and ways you can help your child.

What is sensory processing?

Sensory processing is how the brain takes in, understands, and reacts to information from the environment.

We all experience the world through our eight senses: hearing (auditory), taste, touch (tactile), vision, smell (olfactory), balance and movement (vestibular), body awareness (proprioception), internal body signals (interoception)

Each sense helps us make sense of and move through the world. But for some kids, especially those with sensory processing disorder (SPD) or neurodivergent conditions like autism and ADHD, sensory input can feel like too much or not enough.

You can imagine each sense as having its own "cup." Some children have a big cup that needs lots of input to feel satisfied, while others have a tiny cup that gets overwhelmed with just a little input.

Sensory processing issues happen when these cups are either too large or too small, causing kids to either underreact or overreact to sensory input.

What does sensory dysfunction look like in children?

Sensory dysfunction can look different depending on whether a child is under-responsive or over-responsive to sensory input. These responses can vary from one sense to another, so your child might seek more input in one area but avoid it in another. Recognizing these signs can help you support your child’s sensory needs.

Signs of under-responsiveness (big cup)

Children who are under-responsive need more sensory input to register it and “fill their cup.” They may seem unaware of certain sensations or seek out intense sensory experiences. Here are some signs that your child may be under-responsive:

  • Hearing: Not responding to their name, seeming "tuned out" or often asking for things to be repeated.
  • Touch: Touching everything, showing little reaction to pain or temperature, or enjoying rough physical play.
  • Movement: Craving movement, always running, spinning, or climbing and having trouble sitting still.
  • Body Awareness: Frequently bumping into things, pressing hard when writing or loving tight hugs and squeezes.

Signs of over-responsiveness (small cup)

Children who are overresponsive react strongly to even small amounts of sensory input. Their “cup” overflows easily, which can lead to sensory overload and distress. Signs of over-responsiveness include:

  • Hearing: Covering ears in response to normal sounds, avoiding noisy places or complaining about sounds others don’t notice.
  • Touch: Disliking certain textures, refusing to wear some clothing (like itchy fabrics or tags) or avoiding messy play.
  • Movement: Fearing heights, swings, or escalators and avoiding activities that involve movement like jumping or climbing.
  • Body awareness: Feeling overwhelmed by tight clothes, overreacting to small bumps or falls or being overly cautious with physical activities.

Recognize common behavioral signs of sensory dysfunction.

  • Meltdowns or tantrums: These can happen when your child’s sensory system is overwhelmed. If your child becomes upset after certain noises, textures or movements, sensory overload might be the cause.
  • Difficulty with transitions: Children with sensory challenges may struggle to switch between activities, especially when the sensory environment changes.
  • Unpredictable emotional responses: Sensory dysfunction can make it hard for kids to control their emotions, leading to sudden frustration or distress.

Recognizing these signs early can help you better support your child’s sensory needs.

How can you support your child’s sensory needs?

Here are some steps you can take if your child shows signs of sensory dysfunction. Every child is different, but these strategies can help create a more comfortable sensory environment.

1. Work with a pediatric provider.

An early intervention provider or occupational therapist (OT) can assess your child’s sensory needs and suggest activities or changes to help. They might recommend things like sensory-friendly clothing, noise-canceling headphones or movement-based activities that help your child balance their sensory system. For example, in South Carolina, BabyNet is the referral service for early intervention.

2. Create a sensory-friendly space at home.

Set up a calming sensory space where your child can go when they feel overwhelmed. This might include:

  • Soft lighting or dimmed lamps
  • Comfortable seating (like bean bags or pillows)
  • Weighted blankets for calming pressure
  • Sensory toys like fidget spinners, chewable jewelry or squishy balls
  • Noise-canceling headphones or soothing music

Having a quiet space can help your child calm down and feel safe.

3. Incorporate sensory breaks throughout the day.

If your child is over- or under-responsive to sensory input, regular sensory breaks can help them stay balanced. Some ideas include:

  • Movement breaks: Jumping on a trampoline, swinging or dancing can help with movement and body awareness needs.
  • Deep pressure: Tight hugs, squeezing a stress ball or using a weighted blanket can be calming for kids who need pressure input.
  • Quiet time: Taking breaks in a calm, quiet space can help avoid sensory overload.

These breaks don’t have to be long. Even a few minutes of movement or calming activities can help reset your child’s sensory system.

4. Use visual schedules and cues.

Transitions and changes can be tough for kids with sensory issues. Using visual schedules can help them know what’s coming next and make transitions easier. You can create a simple picture chart with daily routines to provide structure and reduce anxiety.

5. Be patient and flexible.

Remember, sensory challenges are part of your child’s neurodivergence. Be patient and understanding when your child struggles and allow them to adjust at their own pace. Celebrate small wins and remind yourself that sensory regulation takes time and practice.

Remember…

Sensory processing plays an important role in your child's daily life and learning. By recognizing the signs of sensory dysfunction and taking steps to support your child's sensory needs, you can create a safe and manageable environment where they can thrive.

Whether your child has a "big cup" or a "small cup" for sensory input, using strategies like sensory breaks and sensory-friendly spaces can help them better manage their experiences and enjoy life.

If you think your child might have sensory processing challenges, reach out to a healthcare professional for support. Early intervention and specific strategies can make a big difference in your child’s development and well-being.

Child Development Parenting 
 

Related Content

 
Adolescent Autism Babies Development Teens Toddlers New Parents Child Development Parenting