Sensory Problems Sensory Integration (1908)

What is sensory processing?

What is sensory processing dysfunction?

People who have sensory processing problems or sensory processing disorder (SPD) have problems understanding information we get from our senses. This can make it hard for them to respond in expected ways. It can impact ability to participate in daily activities. 

We all have sensory preferences.  We may prefer some feelings or tastes over others.  Sensory preferences do not affect our daily life like sensory processing dysfunction. 

What are the signs of sensory processing problems?

A child may:

• respond too much, too often or for too long. Example: They may respond to sound, touch, feel of clothing, movement, lights, going in the car, busy places, foods, and hair cares.
• respond too little or slowly. Example: They may seem not to notice things. They may seem withdrawn in sensory stimulation or interactions.
• be easily overwhelmed, frustrated, worried, or overstimulated. Example: They may have problems with changes, following directions, or walking through a busy room.
• struggle with daily routines. Example: Some daily self-help activities, play and interactions, and community activities.
• be picky. Example: Eating, clothing, play choices and other things that do not seem to bother others.
• strongly crave input through touch or pressure input. Example: They may enjoy being on the move, running and crashing into things, chewing on things, spinning, watching things, or making sounds.
• have large and small motor coordination problems. Example: They may seem clumsy or have problems learning new tasks.

What is sensory modulation dysfunction?

Sensory modulation dysfunction describes how someone’s brain may react if they have problems processing sensory messages. 

• Over-responsive senses.  Your child’s brain thinks that something is dangerous when it really is not. This can cause your child to be fearful, worried, withdrawn or aggressive.  They may often have meltdowns. These children often try to manage this by insisting on strong routines and ways of doing things. 
• Under-responsive senses. Your child’s brain does not get enough information from their senses.  This means your child may not always be aware of their surroundings. This may cause them to be distracted or have poor attention. Your child may appear disinterested and slow to respond.  They may be clumsy and get tired easily.  

Sensory Cravers or Seekers: Some children seek much stronger sensory input.  They do this by:

• constantly moving
• spinning
• jumping 
• playing roughly
• being loud
• touching other objects or people 
• talking non-stop
• playing with their hands

These children may be aggressive and do things without thinking first.  They may have a hard time sitting still and working or playing quietly. They may have very good large motor skills but poor small motor skills.

Often children will have symptoms from more than one area.

How is it treated?

Occupational therapists (OT) are trained to work with children who have sensory processing problems. An OT can find out which sensory systems are and are not working and how this impacts the child at home and in the community.  They will create a treatment plan based on your child’s needs. 

Who can I call for help?

If you think your child may have sensory processing problems, talk with your child’s primary care doctor. The doctor can refer you to an OT, if needed. After the referral is received, we will call to schedule the evaluation.