What Is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is the brain’s ability to receive, organize, and respond to sensory input. Examples include:
- Feeling the floor while walking
- Tolerating clothing or food textures
- Focusing in noisy environments
- Adjusting movement to catch a ball or ride a scooter
When sensory processing works well, children respond smoothly and consistently to their surroundings.
Signs of Sensory Dysregulation in Children
Sensory dysregulation appears when a child struggles to manage sensory input. Common patterns include:
1- Over-Responsiveness (Hypersensitivity)
- Covers ears in normal noise
- Avoids textures, clothing, or certain foods
- Strong reactions to light or unexpected touch
2- Under-Responsiveness (Hyposensitivity)
- Seeks intense movement (jumping/crashing)
- Minimal response to pain or temperature
- Frequently touches objects, appears clumsy
3- Sensory Seeking / Craving Input
- Constant movement, rocking, fidgeting
- Seeks deep pressure or rough play
- Difficulty staying seated or focused
These behaviours are not misbehaviour — they are the child’s attempt to regulate their nervous system.
How Occupational Therapy Helps With Sensory Challenges
A pediatric occupational therapist uses evidence-based sensory integration therapy to help children respond more effectively to sensory input. Interventions may include:
- Sensory integration activities like swinging, climbing, rolling, or crashing pads
- Calming strategies: deep pressure, weighted tools, breathing exercises
- Alerting strategies: movement breaks, sensory circuits, vestibular input
- Environmental modifications to reduce sensory overload
- Play-based exercises for improved body awareness, regulation, and coordination
Therapy strengthens self-regulation, attention, emotional control, and daily functioning.
Supporting Your Child at Home
- Create a sensory-friendly corner with soft lighting and calming items
- Use predictable routines to reduce overwhelm
- Include movement breaks throughout the day
- Encourage play: climbing, jumping, tactile play, and heavy-work activities
Tip of the Week: “Squeeze, Swing, and Stretch”
A few minutes of deep pressure play—bear hugs, squishing a soft ball, swinging, or gentle stretching—can help stabilize the nervous system and improve calmness and focus.
By Sally Jishi
Occupational therapist
AGAYA Healthcare center