Researchers are looking into biological reasons for these issues. Some research suggests they can be genetic. Researchers are also looking into birth complications and other environmental factors. Get tips on explaining sensory issues to friends and family. Find out how to make sensory-friendly slime.
There are a few tests professionals can use to identify sensory processing issues. In general, though, the behaviors kids with sensory processing issues show are very visible and evident.
Occupational therapists OTs are often qualified to identify and create treatment plans for sensory challenges in kids. Other professionals may be able to identify sensory processing issues, too. These include:. Developmental-behavioral pediatricians. Psychologists, including neuropsychologists. But it can be hard to know where to start. Download an anxiety log to help identify why and when your child gets anxious or stressed.
See an expert explain what goes into an occupational therapy evaluation. Find out what a dad wishes others knew about parenting a child with sensory processing issues. There are no medications for sensory processing issues. But there are professionals who can help your child learn strategies to cope with sensory challenges. OTs often work with kids with sensory issues. They help kids find ways to be less overwhelmed by sensory input. You may have heard of a treatment known as sensory integration therapy.
This is a tailored plan of physical activities. It helps kids learn to calm themselves and regulate their behavior and emotions. And that makes them more open to learning and socializing. Some of these activities are heavy work, a type of activity that pushes or pulls against the body. Read how heavy work can help kids with sensory processing issues. Child psychologists also work with kids who have sensory processing issues. They can use cognitive behavioral therapy to help kids talk through their feelings and frustrations caused by their challenges.
At school, your child might be able to get accommodations through a plan. If your child has an IEP for another issue, it could include accommodations for sensory issues, too. The teacher may also give your child informal supports. Allowing your child to use a fidget. Hyposensitivity occurs when a child is underwhelmed by the world around him or her and needs to seek out additional sensory information to feel content. Signs of this behavior could include a need to touch things excessively, always turning the volume very loud, or constantly putting objects in his or her mouth.
Those who struggle with staying still for any extended period could be hyposensitive, trying to constantly seek movement stimulation. Some people are so mildly afflicted, the disorder is barely noticeable, while others are so impaired they have trouble with daily functioning. Children can be born hypersensitive or hyposensitive to varying degrees and may have trouble in one sensory modality, a few, or all of them.
Hypersensitivity is also known as sensory defensiveness. Examples of hypersensitivity include feeling pain from clothing rubbing against skin, an inability to tolerate normal lighting in a room, a dislike of being touched especially light touch and discomfort when one looks directly into the eyes of another person. An example of a child with hyposensitivity is one who constantly gets up and down in a classroom and is constantly seeking sensory stimulation.
A child can be overly sensitive in one or several of the 7 senses. Hyposensitive too little Hyposensitivity occurs when a child is underwhelmed by his environment and needs to seek out additional sensory information to feel satisfied. Again a child that is hyposensitive might have issues with one or several of the 7 senses. Sensory Processing Issues It is important to look at the environment in relation to difficulties it may be creating for the child.
The environment can sometimes be altered to help the child with any sensory processing issues he might have. For instance lighting can be altered or volume can be reduced or increased.
Alternatively social stories or visual prompts can be used to prepare a child for environments that cannot be altered. However, some of the following information may be helpful.
Smell: A child might find certain smells overwhelming. Make the environment as fragrance free as possible. Sound: Sounds of a particular volume or pitch can be extremely distressing for children who are hypersensitive to sound. Cut out conflicting sounds by closing windows and doors and reduce volume can help to reduce distress. Sight: Certain bright lights such as fluorescent lights or sometimes the sunlight can be difficult for a child who is hypersensitive.
When possible avoid fluorescent lights or bright lighting. Use low wattage bulbs and provide a quiet dark space in the home where the child can go if they feel overwhelmed. Dry, white, crispy foods are often all some children will eat.
Some foods have too strong a flavour. It is okay to for the child to eat plain foods but it is important that they get the necessary dietary nutrition they need.
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