We all have a Sensory Profile. It is what makes up how we perceive and react to the sensory world around us. In saying this, we may all respond to various sensations (touch, taste, sound, smell and sight) differently. Those with a Sensory Processing Disorder can experience difficulty within their everyday environment and completing day to day tasks if adjustments are not put in place.
An Occupational Therapist can help to put in place strategies to help manage a child's response to their sensory input, as well as to assist their sensory needs being met in order to help the child remain in a 'calm-alert' state.
Signs of Sensory Processing Challenges
Some examples of children experiencing sensory processing challenges include:
Having large emotional meltdowns to various sensory input, such as loud or unexpected sounds (sirens, a dog barking, a garbage truck moving) and strong smells.
Constantly getting in and out of their chair when doing work, or difficulty sitting still.
Fussy or picky eating.
Difficulty looking at the board and following simple instructions.
And a lot more!
The Four Sensory Patterns
When a child is scored on a standardised assessment called the Sensory Profile to determine their sensory preferences, they can be categorised as low registration, sensory seeking, sensory sensitive or sensory avoiding, or a combination!
Low registration means that your child may have difficulty picking up on sensory input, such as not noticing objects in a room, and therefore may trip or fall easily or not respond to their name the first time they are called.
Sensory seeking means that your child may go out of their way to seek more sensory input. They are the thrill seekers! For example, they love movement and have lots of energy, or like to try out various different smells and flavours.
Sensory sensitive means that your child may get distracted easily by sensory input, for example a dog barking in the distance or the fan spinning in a room. Children who are sensory sensitive may have difficulty with concentration.
Sensory avoiding means that your child may avoid sensory input as it may cause them to become overwhelmed easily. For example, children who are sensory avoiding may avoid 'messy' play with sand, mud or water as they do not like the feeling it has on their hands.
Each child is unique, and knowing one's sensory profile can often be difficult to understand. Therefore, it is important that therapists gather enough information to get a clear picture of the child and their needs. It is also important to note that our sensory profile is always changing. For example, when children are younger they often do not enjoy eating certain foods, however, as they grow older they may begin to enjoy that type of food.
Sensory Strategies
Some sensory strategies which your Occupational Therapist can recommend for your child to have their sensory needs met include:
Fidget toys
Sensory play with water, sand and dirt
Weighted blankets, toys or vests
Essential oils
Movement breaks throughout the day
Headphones
Move and sit cushions
Visual cues and boards
Listening to calming music in the car
A quiet space at home with soft pillows and cushions
Chewy sensory toys
Please note: these are general examples, and a full OT assessment is required to determine your child's sensory needs.
Wondering if your child has difficulty with their sensory needs? Please do not hesitate to contact Creative Minds Therapy on 0474 169 325 to book an initial consultation.
