Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder

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understanding-sensory-processing-order

In short, Sensory Processing Disorder has to do with one’s nervous system and the way it inputs information it is receiving. Sensory signals are not being organized properly by the nervous system, therefore, the body does not put together an appropriate response. It is not just children who have SPD, but adults as well.

Parents…does your child throw a fit if their socks are not just right, if the material of their clothes are “scratchy.” A new season of temperature change, which means switching from short sleeve clothing to long sleeve clothes and pants can rock your child’s world and turn it upside down. Going to an amusement park or any place with a lot of noise can rev your child up to where they can’t wind down. So long to going to movie theaters because they are “too loud.” Hyperactivity can also be part of having sensory processing disorder, so maybe you have received that stare in a store when you know there is nothing you can do to calm your child at that moment. Or if your child has a sticky finger or some debris on their hand, the world must stop until their hands can be washed. (Ok, I have to admit, this last item is totally me LOL). So if you have said yes to any of the mentioned items, I feel your pain!

SYMPTOMS OF SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER

  • Trouble concentrating and following multi-step directions
  • Poor balance, coordination, endurance, or strength
  • Avoidance to getting dirty, using lotion or sunscreen, or touching certain textures
  • Difficulty eating foods with certain textures, possibly even gagging
  • Sensitivity to sounds, noises, or light
  • Trouble performing daily activities
  • Poor playing or communication skills

Now, the above are just several symptoms, there are many more and the child should be evaluated by an occupational therapist to determine if they need therapy. Also, if you suspect your child has this, or they have already been diagnosed, you know that not every single symptom will apply. There are several things you can do to help your child:

swing

  • Put up a swing, either inside or outside of your home. Swinging for just 10 minutes can help your child’s brain regulate to better receive sensory signals.
  • Water beads – these only cost a few dollars at any craft store. Put the little beads in water until they plump up and let your child play with them in a bowl.
  • Kinetic sand – This costs between $10-20 and your child will love how it feels. Put little cookie cutters in it so they can make shapes.
  • Squishy toys – you can usually find these in the dollar section and kids with sensory usually love touching these toys.
  • Beans and rice – this only cost a few dollars! Put some beans and rice in a plastic container as well as several little toys and cars for your child to play with.
  • Chewy necklace – many kids with sensory will chew the neck line of their shirt. You can purchase a chewy necklace so they can chew on that instead. This will also give them the much needed input they need.  Or you can have your child chew on gum, starbursts or beef jerky.
  • Rock wall climbing, monkey bars, tug of war, pushing a heavy shopping cart, or climbing a rope or ladder are great activities for input.
  • Trampoline or jumping rope – this hard pounding exercise is great for your child’s joints. Many kids with sensory feel better when there joints are activated like this.
  • Wheelbarrow walking, wall or chair pushups, carrying heavy objects, cleaning, and crawling games are all great “heavy work” activities for your child to get input.

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I hope I have given you some ideas that you can do with your child to help ease them through their day. One thing I have learned is to never judge a parent when they are out and their child is having a tantrum or acting in a way that you may disapprove of or even think, “I would never let my child act like that.” The truth is, we never know what struggle a parent and their child is going through at the moment. Let’s not pass judgement when we see a small snapshot in time, but let’s support and encourage one another! I would love to hear your experience with SPD and any tips you may have!

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