How can I support my child’s sensory needs?

Sensory processing refers to how the brain registers and interprets sensory information from both within our bodies and the world around us. It simply put is how we react to things like noises we hear, smells we smell, items we see.

 

We have eight senses altogether and each of us uniquely experiences these. Some children, especially those who are neurodivergent, can struggle to stay regulated when their sensory system is not supported by the environment. This can make it difficult to participate in activities such as dressing, social activities, sleep and schoolwork.

 

Sensory processing difficulties may arise because our brain over or under reacts to information such as a smell, touch or sound. They can arise if the brain can’t make sense of information coming in to our senses.

 

There has been considerable research looking at sensory processing in autistic children and we know from this research that many autistic children have difficulties in sensory processing. We also now know from research that children with other neurodivergent conditions frequently show similar difficulties.

 

A recent study systematically reviewed studies that had examined sensory processing in children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD; often referred to as Dyspraxia). The 10 studies reviewed collectively showed that children with DCD had sensory processing difficulties across many sensory areas including touch, hearing and sight. The review showed that these difficulties were associated with the motor co-ordination difficulties these children showed highlighting how important it is to understand and support sensory difficulties to help these children across the areas of difficulty they show.

 

Research has shown similar findings with children with ADHD. For example, in one recent study it was shown that children with ADHD had a range of sensory processing difficulties and these were linked to their attentional and behavioural issues.

 

Next week we are hosting a webinar on this topic within our parent platform. Beth Smithson, an occupational therapist based with Sensory Integration Education, will talk about the concept of sensory processing and explain how each of us uniquely experiences our eight senses. Beth will also explore how children may struggle to stay regulated or participate in activities such as dressing, toileting, sleep and schoolwork when their sensory system is not supported by the environment.

Very importantly, Beth will outline practical strategies to support children’s sensory needs, along with guidance on next steps for ongoing support.

 

You can access this webinar by joining our parent subscriber platform here: https://epicthinklearn.com/parents-join-epic/

Joining will also give you access to our library of recorded webinars on topics such as masking, anxiety and thinking skills (known as ‘executive functions’). You will also be able to access detailed resources on executive functions including booklets, videos and audios alongside our regular Q&A sessions run to ensure you get a chance to ask any questions you have.