Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder in Kids
4 min read
Touch, sight, sound, smell, taste and motion all seem simple enough. But our sensory system is quite complex and requires an orchestrated nervous system to interpret and then execute sensory motor information.
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition where the brain does not accurately perceive sensory information. It is also sometimes referred to as Sensory Integration Disorder. In response to sensory information not being perceived accurately, we often witness abnormal behaviors, which may be under responsive, over responsive or sensory seeking.
Here are a few signs to look out for:
Sensory Over Responders.
These are individuals who over respond to stimuli. Things seem too loud, too hard, too heavy, too sticky, too wet and, well, just too much! Sensory Over Responders do not like to get too messy. They avoid noisy, public places and the tags in their clothing. A fireworks display can send them running for cover. Other signs may include:- Extreme response to or fear of sudden, high-pitched, loud, or metallic noises like flushing toilets, clanking silverware, or other noises that seem inoffensive to others
- May notice and/or be distracted by background noises that others don't seem to hear
- Fearful of surprise touch, avoids hugs and cuddling even with familiar adults
- Seems fearful of crowds or avoids standing in close proximity to others
- Doesn't enjoy a game of tag and/or is overly fearful of swings and playground equipment
- Extremely fearful of climbing or falling, even when there is no real danger i.e. doesn't like his or her feet to be off the ground
Habitat for Over Responders
Weighted Blanket with Slipcover
Sensory Under Responders.
These are individuals who under respond to stimuli. They don't hear their name when you call them. They lose their backpack. They slouch. They fall down. They forget and they are disorganized. Sensory Under Responders are often lost in a big crowd of kids. A few other signs may be:- Clumsy and uncoordinated movements
- Has poor balance, may fall often
- An extremely high tolerance for or indifference to pain
- Doesn't respond to their name or you have to call them over and over
- Forgetful
- Drops things
- Appears disorganized
- Muscle tone is low
- They may miss visual cues that are easy to notice or see
Therapy Ball
Rockin Rocker Board
Sensory Seekers.
These individuals are constantly touching, pushing, grabbing, shouting, jumping, biting and on the move. These children get in trouble a lot because they don't know how to use their energy appropriately. Sensory Seekers often love recess and competition. Some other signs may be:- A constant need to touch people or textures, even when it's inappropriate to do so
- Doesn't understand personal space even when same-age peers are old enough to understand it
- Often harms other children and/or pets when playing, i.e. doesn't understand his or her own strength
- May be very fidgety and unable to sit still, enjoys movement-based play like spinning, jumping, etc.
- Seems to be a "thrill seeker" and can be dangerous at times
Hand Eye Coordination Scarves
Find Me⢠Lap Pad - At The Farm
If you have concerns that your child may have SPD, it's best to schedule a visit with an Occupational Therapist who can do testing and give you an accurate diagnosis.
Comments
What happens if my son has a little bit of each of the 3 types of SPD?
Lauren:
That is normal and you can use different strategies for each type that he is displaying. Don’t be afraid to try out different solutions.
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