Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder in a 3-Year-Old
4 min read
Are you troubled by some behaviors that you are seeing in your 3-year-old? Chances are it’s nothing to worry about, but they may be related to Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), a condition where the brain does not accurately perceive sensory information. While a tantrum or behavior issue may be attributed to "just being 2," a persistent pattern at age 3 may require professional attention.
An SPD, sometimes known as Sensory Integration Disorder, can impact any of the 8 sensory systems– visual, tactile, auditory, olfactory, oral, vestibular, proprioceptive and interoceptive. When sensory input is not accurately processed by the brain, it can result in hyperactive behaviors or a lack of response. You can observe your child’s reaction to various stimuli to determine if they are over- or under-responders. Our occupational therapists are sharing a few of the signs to look out for if you’re concerned about an SPD.
Sensory Over-Responders
Sometimes known as sensory avoiders, these are the children who over-respond to stimuli. Things that are usually innocuous are too loud, too hard, too heavy, and just too much for them! If you have a sensory over-responder, you may find that they avoid noisy public places. Tags in their clothing are impossible to ignore. They do not want to participate in activities where they will get messy.
Other signs may include:
Being over-responsive to sensory input has some benefits, too. These kids are generally organized, punctual and good at staying on-task. Their dislike of surprises and sudden stimuli can manifest as a child who is scheduled and aware. When looking for sensory strategies to use with an over-responder, aim for things that help ground and reassure them. They may benefit from soothing music, weighted blankets and gentle swinging motions. If possible, set up a calming environment for them to spend time in as needed.
Sensory Under Responders
Under-responders are children who need more than the typical amount of sensory input. They may not hear their name when you call them unless you repeat yourself several times. They might appear to be messy or disorganized. Sitting still and with proper posture may be very difficult for them. An under-responsive child often appears disengaged from their surroundings.
Some other signs of a sensory under-responder include:
While it might seem like a sensory under-responder just doesn’t care, there are also positive aspects to this trait. If your child is under-responsive to stimuli then they are likely to be generally relaxed. They probably don’t overreact when under pressure and are able to go with the flow. You may need to give them extra sensory input to help them stay alert, focused and engaged. Sitting on a Wiggle Cushion can promote proper posture for increased attention. A Time Timer can encourage your child to stay on-task.
Sensory Seekers
These kids are constantly touching, pushing, grabbing, shouting, jumping, biting and generally on the move.They often love action and competition. You may find that they get in trouble frequently because they don’t know how to modulate their energy.
Some other signs include:
Benefits of sensory seekers may include high levels of creativity and a tendency to be alert and not get tired. Look for strategies to redirect their energy into more purposeful activities. You can use Hand-Eye Coordination Scarves to satisfy their need to throw, while working on motor planning and visual coordination skills. Fidget Lap Pads keep their hands occupied so that they are able to sit and free their minds to concentrate.
Keep in mind, a sensory processing disorder does not have to be for every type of sensory input. Your child may be over-responsive to tactile input, under-responsive to sound and a seeker when it comes to movement! If you have concerns that your child may have an SPD, it's best to visit your doctor and an occupational therapist for testing and an accurate diagnosis so that you can provide your child with the support they need.
Explore our free templates and printables for more guidance to help your sensory children.
Comments
Thank you for reaching out. You may want to post some of your concerns on our facebook page to see what other parents in your situation have done. Be sure though you have him involved in a sport or physical activity every day. Ones with structure are best. You might appreciate having a home swing as well.
I need help with my son I feel like he’s fine and perfect he’s 4 he Liston talks but when we say his name I would have to repeat it over and over. He doesn’t forget things he remember I tell him we’re going movies and he will remind me the next day….but he also has muscle low tone. We feel like he has a minor SPD but what can we do to help him.
Our son has a tramatic brain injury resulting in a sensory processing disorder, we has him attending pt other speech and sensory therapy thru early intervention now 3 over there cap we need help. He is frustrated oversensitive processing emotions is difficult his sibling a year older has been effected n tries hard to give distance but show love and support. We as parents are needing help to get him more services. We enrolled him in early learning center which has these type of specialists asses him and critique a school enviornment for him to play therapy thru but waiting for his IEP process has been too much on him. He needs more even when program is imemented part time. His main function. Oncerns and low tone injury seeking needs help at home.
Any suggestions his neurologist devopmental specialists say he needs more his primary says she will write any referrals we need. We need.help to find what’s best asap.
Please help
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