If you’ve noticed your child exhibiting unusual behaviors or struggling with everyday activities, you’re not alone. Many parents recognize the signs of sensory processing issues in their children, but may not know where to start. The good news is that with the right support and strategies, children can learn to manage their sensory processing challenges and thrive.
Kids’ sensory processing issues change gradually, starts at the age when they are toddlers from when they are high-schoolers. Babies and preschoolers have very fussy sensory processing issues and often they are over-sensitive. When they are grade-schoolers they feel uncomfortable in different social situations and transition phases, while this feeling turn into impulsiveness when they are middle-schoolers. Finally they start to come to a steady mood when they are teenagers, but still feel uncomfortable to find out personal space.
Did you know that sensory processing issues affect 1 in 5 children? Learn how to support your child's sensory processing development and help them thrive. #SensoryProcessing #LearningSuccess
Signs and Symptoms of Sensory Processing Issues
Parents may notice a range of signs and symptoms in their child, including:
- Difficulty with social interactions or relationships
- Struggles with emotional regulation, leading to mood swings or explosive behavior
- Sensory seeking or avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding certain textures or sounds
- Difficulties with everyday activities, such as dressing or feeding
Sensory processing issues are not a disorder, but rather a difference in how the brain processes sensory information. By embracing this difference and providing the right support, we can help children thrive. – Laura Lurns
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Support Strategies for Parents
There are many ways parents can support their child’s sensory processing development, including:
- Providing a sensory-friendly environment, such as a quiet and calm space
- Offering sensory integration activities, such as playdough or swinging
- Using visual supports, such as pictures or schedules, to help with transitions and routines
- Encouraging self-regulation strategies, such as deep breathing or mindfulness
Key takeaways
- Sensory Processing 101: Understanding the basics of sensory processing
- Signs and Symptoms: Recognizing the signs of sensory processing issues in children
- Support Strategies: Practical tips for parents to support their child's sensory processing development
Conclusion
Sensory processing issues can be challenging for children and their families, but with the right support and strategies, children can learn to manage their sensory processing challenges and thrive. By providing a sensory-friendly environment, offering sensory integration activities, and encouraging self-regulation strategies, parents can help their child develop the skills they need to succeed.
The brain is capable of reorganizing itself in response to new experiences and environments. By providing a sensory-friendly environment and offering sensory integration activities, we can help children develop the skills they need to succeed. – Dr. Temple Grandin
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Every child deserves to thrive, and with the right support, they can. By understanding and addressing sensory processing issues, parents can help their child develop the skills they need to succeed and reach their full potential. Join the Learning Success community today and start supporting your child’s sensory processing development.
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References
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Sensory Processing Disorder.
- Grandin, T. (2013). The Autistic Brain: Thinking Across the Spectrum.
