Have you ever wondered how your child knows when to blink in bright light, stay balanced while walking, or calm down after hearing a loud sound? These everyday skills come from something called sensory processing.
Sensory processing is the way our brain receives, interprets, and organizes information from the world around us. This includes everything we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. It’s a behind-the-scenes system that helps us respond to everyday experiences in a meaningful and appropriate way.
Understanding Sensory Processing
Every second, your child’s body is picking up signals:
- The feel of the clothes on their skin (touch)
- The sound of birds outside (hearing)
- The sight of bright lights or colors (vision)
- The feeling of motion when jumping or swinging (movement and balance)
- The taste and smell of food
Once the body picks up this information, it sends it to the brain, which organizes it and tells the body how to respond. This whole process is automatic—meaning it happens without your child even thinking about it.
For example:
- Your child hears a school bell and lines up with their class.
- They feel cold and put on a sweater.
- They smell something burning and move away.
All of these are examples of sensory input turning into meaningful action. That’s sensory processing at work!
Why is Sensory Processing Important?
Good sensory processing helps children:
- Stay focused and alert
- Move and play safely
- Handle new experiences without fear
- Get along with others
- Learn and grow with confidence
When sensory processing works well, your child feels comfortable and confident in their body and surroundings. But when the system isn’t working properly, it can lead to sensory processing difficulties.
Signs of Sensory Processing Difficulties
Sometimes the brain misinterprets sensory messages. A child might:
- Overreact to input (covering ears at normal sounds, refusing certain textures)
- Underreact (not noticing pain or not responding to name being called)
- Seek more input (crashing into things, chewing on non-food items, spinning a lot)
These challenges can affect learning, emotions, and social interactions. For example, a child might get easily overwhelmed in a noisy classroom or struggle to sit still during a meal. These are not just behavioral problems—they may be signs of a sensory processing issue.
Sensory Processing vs. Sensory Integration
These two terms are often used together but mean slightly different things:
- Sensory Processing is the brain’s ability to handle information from the senses.
- Sensory Integration is the process of organizing this sensory input and using it in daily life (like writing, dressing, or playing).
Think of it this way: Sensory processing is like gathering puzzle pieces. Sensory integration is putting them together into a complete picture.
How Can Parents Help?
If you notice your child is very sensitive to sounds, avoids certain textures, or always seems to be on the move, here are some things you can try:
✅ Provide predictable routines – This helps reduce sensory overload.
✅ Offer sensory-rich play – Let them swing, jump, climb, or play with different textures like sand or water.
✅ Watch for patterns – Take note of what your child avoids or seeks.
✅ Talk to a professional – An occupational therapist (OT) can help assess and support your child’s sensory needs.
You don’t need to fix everything yourself. Understanding sensory processing is the first step to helping your child feel calm, safe, and ready to learn.
Final Thoughts
Sensory processing is an essential part of how your child interacts with the world. It allows them to understand their environment, respond to it, and feel comfortable in their own body. When you understand how sensory processing works, you can better support your child’s needs—whether through play, structure, or professional guidance.
Every child processes the world in their own unique way, and with the right support, they can thrive.
References:
- Ayres, A. J. (2005). Sensory Integration and the Child. Western Psychological Services.
- Bundy, A. C., Lane, S. J., & Murray, E. A. (2002). Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice. F.A. Davis.
- Miller, L. J. (2006). Sensational Kids: Hope and Help for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder. Penguin Books.
- STAR Institute for Sensory Processing – www.spdstar.org
Tags: sensory processing, child behaviour, parenting tips, sensory challenges, occupational therapy
Categories: Sensory Integration, Parenting Support, Child Development
