Site Disclaimer

Sensory Processing Disorder

Some children are over-responsive to sensations and may feel overwhelmed by everyday input. Regular lights, normal touch or typical sounds can make these children feel constantly bombarded. They may avoid touch, messy activities, social situations or the playground. Other children are under-responsive and may seek sensory stimulation by fidgeting, constant talking or not appearing to register pain. Some children have difficulty regulating their sensory systems and sometimes under or over react. This can lead to motor, emotional or behavioral difficulties.

Signs & Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

 Overly sensitive to touch, movement, smell, taste, sights or sounds

 Under-reactive to touch, movement, smell, taste, sights or sounds

 Inability to unwind or calm self

 Difficulty making transitions from one situation or activity to another

 Poor self organization

 Dislike of haircutting, nail trimming or other grooming activities

 Avoidance of messy activities or being barefoot

 Constant movement or restlessness

 Activity level that is unusually high or unusually low

 Avoidance of playground equipment

 Physical clumsiness or apparent carelessness

 Over or under sensitivity to pain

 “Picky” eater

 Poor concentration or attention

 Impulsive, lacking in self-control

 Tires easily

 Sleep problems

 Poor coordination, stumbles frequently

 Difficulty learning new motor tasks

 Easily distracted

 General delays in gross and fine motor skills

 Delays in speech or language

 Delays in academic achievement

 Social and/or emotional problems

 Irritability, anxiety, behavior or social problems

 Easily frustrated

 Poor self concept

Typically, a child with a sensory integrative disorder will show more than one of the above signs.

           Identification of SPD and intervention can have a big impact on these children’s lives and their families.             Through occupational therapy with a sensory integrative approach, by a qualified occupational                  therapist, children with SPD can improve their sensory regulation, sensory processing, motor skills

            and learn  strategies to enhance daily functioning at home and school.

Back to Top