Have you ever noticed your child reacting strongly to certain sights, sounds, or textures? Maybe loud noises seem to “hurt my ears”, bright lights “trigger meltdowns “hurt my eyes”, or certain clothing feels “too itchy!” and of course these things easily trigger meltdowns. While allergies or sensitivities to specific substances can explain some reactions, other times the reason might be less obvious. This is where understanding Sensory Processing Challenges (SPC) can be of value.
What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is how our brains receive and interpret information from our senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell). It allows us to experience the world around us in a cohesive way.
Sensory Processing Challenges (SPC):
In children with SPC, these processing pathways might be “out of sync,” leading them to experience sensory information differently than others. This can manifest in a variety of ways:
- Oversensitivity: A child might find loud noises overwhelming, runs from the table due to certain smells, bright lights irritating, or certain textures unbearable.
- Under-sensitivity: A child might seem unfazed by loud noises, oblivious to pain, or crave intense sensory experiences like jumping or spinning.
- Sensory Seeking: A child might constantly seek out strong sensory input, like rough textures, loud noises, or bright lights.
Understanding these differences is key.
For example, a child who seems withdrawn during a crowded birthday party might not be shy – they might be overwhelmed by the loud singing, flashing lights, and close physical contact.
If you suspect your child might have SPC, what can you do?
- Observe: Pay attention to how your child reacts to different sensory experiences.
- Talk to your pediatrician: They can assess your child and provide guidance or referrals if needed.
- Seek additional resources: Many online resources and organizations offer information and support for parents of children with SPC.
The good news is that the brain is remarkably adaptable! This concept, called neuroplasticity, means our brains can learn and change throughout our lives. There are several approaches that can help children (and even adults) with sensory processing challenges by promoting neuroplasticity.
Your First Tip: Be a Sensory Superhero!
Acknowledge and Support: The most important thing you can do is acknowledge your child’s struggles and support them, rather than adding stress by expecting them to ignore sensory overload. Imagine their situation as having sensory buttons turned up too high or too low. They truly experience the world differently!
Here are some ways to be a Sensory Superhero:
- Sensory-Friendly Choices: If loud noises at the movie theater are overwhelming, consider a sensory-friendly movie showing.
- Tools for Comfort: Pack earplugs or noise-canceling headphones for situations with loud sounds.
- Positive Alternatives: If birthday party singing and clapping cause discomfort, offer your child a quiet space or a favorite calming scent like lemon to create a sensory haven.
Remember, you’re not alone! There are many resources available to help you navigate your child’s sensory world.
Curious to Learn More?
If you’d like to explore how Sensory Balancing, a technique that focuses on identifying and addressing processing imbalances, might be helpful for your child, I welcome you to contact me for a consultation. These consultations can be done conveniently via video call, allowing you to connect from the comfort of your home. Contact Us
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any concerns you may have about your child’s development.