May 10, 2024
As parents, we strive to understand and support our children's unique needs and challenges. For some children, navigating the sensory world can be overwhelming and confusing, leading to difficulties in everyday activities. In this post, we'll explore what sensory processing disorder (SPD) is and how it can impact children and families.
1. What is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory processing disorder, often referred to as SPD, is a condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information. This includes information from our senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell — as well as the sense of movement, body awareness, and internal signals (proprioception, vestibular, and interoception). Children with SPD may have difficulty processing and responding to sensory stimuli in a typical manner, leading to challenges in regulating their responses and behaviors.
2. Signs and Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder
Children with SPD may exhibit a wide range of signs and symptoms, which can vary depending on individual differences and sensory preferences. Some common signs of SPD include:
3. Diagnosing Sensory Processing Disorder
SPD is not yet specified in the DSM-5 or the ICD-10 as a diagnostic code; however, it is listed in the Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-3R). Diagnosing SPD can be complex, as it often involves careful observation and assessment by healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists or developmental pediatricians. These professionals may use standardized assessments, parent interviews, and direct observation of the child's behavior to evaluate their sensory processing abilities and identify areas of difficulty
4. Strategies for Supporting Children with Sensory Processing Disorder
While there is no cure for SPD, there are many strategies and interventions that can help support children in managing their sensory challenges and thriving in daily life. Some effective strategies include:
Embracing Neurodiversity
Sensory processing disorder is a condition that affects how children perceive and respond to sensory information, but with understanding, support, and appropriate interventions, children with SPD can thrive and reach their full potential. By embracing neurodiversity and celebrating each child's unique strengths and challenges, we can create a world where all children feel understood, accepted, and valued for who they are.
-The Milestone Market Team
As parents, we strive to understand and support our children's unique needs and challenges. For some children, navigating the sensory world can be overwhelming and confusing, leading to difficulties in everyday activities. In this post, we'll explore what sensory processing disorder (SPD) is and how it can impact children and families.
1. What is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory processing disorder, often referred to as SPD, is a condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information. This includes information from our senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell — as well as the sense of movement, body awareness, and internal signals (proprioception, vestibular, and interoception). Children with SPD may have difficulty processing and responding to sensory stimuli in a typical manner, leading to challenges in regulating their responses and behaviors.
2. Signs and Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder
Children with SPD may exhibit a wide range of signs and symptoms, which can vary depending on individual differences and sensory preferences. Some common signs of SPD include:
- Overly sensitive to sensory input (hypersensitivity) or underreactive to sensory input (hyposensitivity)
- Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
- Avoidance of certain textures, sounds, or smells
- Overwhelmed by crowded or noisy environments
- Difficulty with fine or gross motor skills
- Impulsive or sensory-seeking behaviors (e.g., spinning, jumping, crashing)
3. Diagnosing Sensory Processing Disorder
SPD is not yet specified in the DSM-5 or the ICD-10 as a diagnostic code; however, it is listed in the Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-3R). Diagnosing SPD can be complex, as it often involves careful observation and assessment by healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists or developmental pediatricians. These professionals may use standardized assessments, parent interviews, and direct observation of the child's behavior to evaluate their sensory processing abilities and identify areas of difficulty
4. Strategies for Supporting Children with Sensory Processing Disorder
While there is no cure for SPD, there are many strategies and interventions that can help support children in managing their sensory challenges and thriving in daily life. Some effective strategies include:
- Creating a sensory-friendly environment at home and school
- Providing sensory breaks and opportunities for movement and sensory input throughout the day
- Using sensory tools and equipment such as weighted blankets, fidget toys, or sensory swings
- Working with a trained occupational therapist to develop individualized sensory activities and therapy plans
Embracing Neurodiversity
Sensory processing disorder is a condition that affects how children perceive and respond to sensory information, but with understanding, support, and appropriate interventions, children with SPD can thrive and reach their full potential. By embracing neurodiversity and celebrating each child's unique strengths and challenges, we can create a world where all children feel understood, accepted, and valued for who they are.
-The Milestone Market Team
