Understanding Sensory Processing Differences in Children

Throughout their growth and development, children encounter a range of varying sensory experiences every day. These sensory inputs, such as sight, sound, touch, and movement, help them make sense of the world around them. 

For most children, this process of sensory integration happens naturally, but for some, it can be more challenging and impact their day-to-day function. Understanding sensory processing differences is key to helping these children engage with their environment in a way that supports their overall development and wellbeing.

At Conscious Healthcare SA, we help families navigate the complexities of sensory processing and develop appropriate strategies for children to promote positive outcomes. Read on to learn more.

What is Sensory Processing?

Generally speaking, sensory processing refers to how the brain interprets and responds to sensory information from the environment. It’s a complex process that starts when sensory receptors in the body receive input (such as sounds, textures, or lights), which is then sent to the brain for interpretation. 

The brain organises and interprets these signals, allowing the body to respond appropriately. For children who experience sensory processing differences, how these signals are interpreted and processed can differ and contribute to unique challenges that other children may not face.

How the brain interprets sensory information

The brain constantly receives and processes sensory input, from the feeling of the wind on your face to hearing a dog bark in the distance. For most children, the brain’s ability to process and respond to sensory information works efficiently. However, for children with sensory integration processing differences, the brain may either over- or under-respond to different sensory stimuli, making it harder for them to function in everyday settings.

The seven senses and their role in development

While we commonly talk about the five senses (we know these as sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch), there are actually seven senses that play a role in childhood development. These include:

• Tactile (Touch) – helps children navigate their physical environment and interact with objects.
• Vestibular (Balance and movement) – these are essential for coordination, balance, and overall motor control.
• Proprioception (Body awareness) – this gives a sense of where the body is in space, helping with movements and associated coordination/navigation within the world.
• Visual (Sight) – allows children to understand and respond to visual cues.
• Auditory (Hearing) – helps children process and respond to sounds.
• Gustatory (Taste) – influences eating habits and food preferences.
• Olfactory (Smell) – affects food preferences and environmental comfort.

Together, these senses provide a foundation for many of the skills children need to thrive. When any of these sensory processes are disrupted, it can impact how children engage with each of these areas, which in turn influences daily tasks, learning, and social interactions.

Signs of Sensory Processing Differences

Sensory processing differences can manifest in several ways. Some children may be overly sensitive to sensory input, while others may seek out intense sensory experiences. Understanding these behaviours and differences in sensory sensitivities can help identify when a child might need additional support.

Over-responsive vs under-responsive behaviours

Children with over-responsive sensory processing may become easily overwhelmed by sensory input, especially if too many are occurring at once. They might become distressed by everyday sounds, lights, or textures that others might not notice. For example, a child may be unable to tolerate certain clothing fabrics or loud noises, which can lead to frustration or avoidance of those specific sensory triggers.

On the other hand, children who are under-responsive may not react to sensory input in the way we might expect. For example, they may not respond to their name being called, experience reduced awareness of their body in space, or they may seek out more intense sensory experiences (like jumping or spinning) in order to “stimulate” themselves.

How sensory differences affect play, learning, and socialisation

These variations in sensory processing differences have the potential to impact a child’s ability to engage in activities such as play, learning at school, or socialising with peers. As a point of comparison, a child with tactile sensitivities may avoid playing with certain textures during art class, while a child who is under-responsive to visual stimuli may struggle to follow directions in the classroom.

These differences can also influence a child’s ability to manage sensory transitions (such as going from an air-conditioned interior space to stepping outside into the summer heat), stay focused during tasks, or participate in group activities. Understanding how these challenges present themselves allows families and professionals to work together to create strategies that support the child’s participation in these key areas of life.

Supporting Sensory Needs at Home and School

Creating environments that support the sensory needs of children is crucial in helping them feel comfortable and able to meaningfully engage in everyday activities.

Sensory-friendly environments and routines

For children, it’s helpful to create sensory-friendly spaces wherever they spend a notable amount of time - such as at home and school. This can include creating devoted quiet areas for children who need a place to regulate and calm down, or spaces for movement for children who need to engage their proprioceptive or vestibular systems. 

Some children with sensory differences may benefit from having a predictable routine that helps them anticipate transitions and reduces anxiety around unexpected changes.

It’s important to create these spaces and routines for children as it grants them a sense of control over their environment and can reduce the prevalence of sensory overwhelm. Families can also make use of sensory tools, such as weighted blankets or noise-cancelling headphones, to help children with self-regulation.

Tools and activities that help regulate sensory input

There are plenty of tools and activities available to children that can help them regulate their responses to sensory input. Certain fidget toys, sensory bins (containers filled with a variety of different materials for exploring different sensory inputs safely), or even specific types of music can help children manage sensory overload. Play-based activities - such as swinging, jumping, or rolling on an exercise ball - can also support sensory regulation, especially for children who crave movement or vestibular input.

Incorporating these tools and activities into daily routines can help children feel more balanced while encouraging them to be active participants in regulating their sensory experiences. The more the control they have over their experiences, the more it helps them improve their sensory responses and processing.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many children experience mild sensory differences from time to time, some may require additional support from a healthcare professional in managing their sensory needs.

How OTs assess sensory processing

Paediatric occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role in assessing the sensory processing of individual children and creating appropriate plans that cater to their specific needs. The process starts with a comprehensive assessment that includes observing how a child responds to sensory input in different environments; gathering information from their parents, other caretakers, and teachers; and using standardised tools to assess sensory processing patterns.

From there, OTs develop strategies tailored to the child’s specific needs, which may include modifications in the home (such as introducing sensory-friendly quiet spaces), school-based interventions, or specific therapeutic activities to help with their regulation.

Therapy approaches used at Conscious Healthcare SA

At Conscious Healthcare SA, we offer evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are designed to support the wide range of sensory processing differences that can present in children, whether it’s the result of neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism or ADHD, early childhood experiences, or due to a physical or mental disability. Whatever the cause, we can help.

We work collaboratively with families, schools, and other professionals to create environments that help children thrive. Our therapy sessions may involve sensory integration therapy, play-based therapy, and educational support, all focused on meeting the child where they are and helping them progress at a pace that works for them and helps them build confidence over time.

To find out more about how we can help your child navigate sensory processing differences, get in touch with the team today.