‘Sensory processing development’ is vital to understanding how children learn. It is deeply studied among early childhood experts, but not widely known among parents. And yet, every child has a sensory processing system; it is what makes a child unique!
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What is Sensory Processing?
Noise, vibration, space, movement, touch, and light are processed through our brains and make us feel comfortable or uncomfortable, under or overly stimulated, focused or distracted. This is sensory processing. Everyone knows “the five senses” – touch, taste, hearing, smell, sight. But do you also know these other senses?
- Vestibular – Movement and balance.
- How we experience balance and movement (e.g., “that feeling” in your tummy when you jump from a high point or have been spinning around).
- Proprioceptive – Bone and muscle sensations.
- How we experience our bodies in space through our bones and muscles (e.g., “that feeling” when you get hugged or accidently bumped).
- Interoceptive – Internal sensations.
- How we feel what is happening on the inside of our bodies (e.g., “that feeling” of being hungry, listening to your heartbeat, or needing to use the potty).
All of these senses impact how a child learns.
Some Common Sensory Seeking Behaviors
- Being excessively oral; chewing on shirt sleeves, toys, etc.
- A need to crash or bump into things / people (prefers big, crashing movements)
- Loves spinning in circles (constantly moving)
- Likes jumping
- Likes dumping toys
- Likes tight hugs
Why I Should Care About Sensory Processing
As the brain of a young child rapidly develops, the neural pathways that are forming affect how a child interprets stimuli from its environment. So it is vital that we understand how a child uniquely interprets their environment in order to optimize their learning, attention, regulation, and emotional and behavioral reactions.
Just as with every other area of human development, the sensory system grows, changing and maturing through childhood.
Just Remember
- We are all under or over sensitive to some things. This does not mean your child’s sensory processing system is challenged!
- If you have concerns about your child’s sensory processing system, a good rule of thumb is: If your child’s reactions are stopping them from engaging with other children, participating in daily routines and activities, or are causing frequent, inconsolable emotional upsets, consult a developmental pediatrician (different from a medical pediatrician), occupational therapist or learning specialist.
Do
Some Useful Tools
- If your child demonstrates a strong need to chew:
- Bite Saber Necklace (there are versions for different chew strengths)
- Brick Stick Necklace
- Pencil Topper Chewable Tubes
- Kaleidescope Chew Bracelet
- If your child enjoys jumping, crashing, spinning:
- For help sitting on the floor or a chair:
- For children who love cozy, secure spaces: