Sensory processing is essential for children’s development, influencing how they interact with and understand their environment. We have eight sensory systems. This guide explores the different sensory systems and discusses how sensory challenges can impact daily life. Visual System The visual system allows children to perceive and interpret visual information from their surroundings, such as recognizing shapes, colors, and movements. Common Challenges: Difficulty with tracking moving objects Sensitivity to bright lights or glare Challenges with depth perception Interference with Daily Life ..read more

Sensory aversions can present unique challenges for both children and parents, especially when navigating daily activities and routines. Whether it’s a sensitivity to certain textures, sounds, tastes, or smells, understanding and effectively managing sensory aversions is crucial for promoting comfort and well-being. In this guide, we’ll explore practical strategies and tips to help parents handle sensory aversions in their children. Understanding Sensory Aversions Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand what sensory aversions are and how they manifest. Sensory aversions occ ..read more

Welcome to the world of sensory seeking and sensory avoiding. These terms describe how individuals respond to the sensory input around them – some seek it out eagerly, while others avoid it. Imagine a busy room: for some, it’s energizing, but for others, it’s overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll explore what sensory seeking and sensory avoiding mean, how they may affect daily life, and how to support individuals with different sensory processing styles. It’s helpful to have an understanding of sensory processing disorder (SPD) before diving into the differences between seeking and avoiding behavi ..read more

If you are like most parents with a newly diagnosed child with sensory processing disorder (SPD) you will want to arm yourself with an arsenal of information. The following books are tried and true recommendations from Occupational Therapists (OTs) and parents alike. Without further ado, here is my list of top 4 books on sensory processing disorder. “The Out-of-Sync Child” by Carol Kranowitz My first pick is a classic that stands as a beacon of understanding. “The Out-of-Sync Child” by Carol Kranowitz uses real-life stories and practical advice. You will recognize many things your child does a ..read more

Creating a sensory room offers a unique and invaluable resource for therapy clinics and homes, promoting relaxation, sensory input, and helping with emotional well-being and regulation. Whether you’re a therapist striving to provide a therapeutic space for a diverse clientele or a parent wanting to create a sensory room to meet your child’s specific needs, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps of setting up a sensory room. Designing Your Sensory Room Prior to diving into the creative process, there are some considerations to take into account. Space Selection and ..read more

Discovering Inclusive Events and Activities Across the United States In an increasingly inclusive world, many places in the United States are recognizing the importance of creating sensory-friendly environments for individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and autism spectrum disorders. These spaces offer sensory-friendly hours, times, or designated areas to ensure everyone can enjoy their visit comfortably. In this blog, we’ll journey across the nation to uncover some amazing places that go the extra mile to cater to sensory needs. Sensory-Friendly Movie Theaters Many movie theaters ..read more

For a sensory avoider starting school can be quite challenging. Sensory avoiders are individuals who experience heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli. They may be sensitive to noise, smells, visual stimuli, or touch which could make the classroom and school setting very overwhelming. By understanding what sensory stimuli are challenging for your child, you’ll be better able to help with the transition back to school. In this blog, we’ll cover some tips and strategies to help with a successful start to school for your sensory avoider.  Preparing for the Transition Self-awareness If you ..read more

Starting school is an exciting time for any child, but it can be particularly overwhelming for sensory seekers. Sensory seekers are individuals who actively seek sensory input to regulate their nervous system. They may crave movement, touch, or visual stimuli, which can make the school environment challenging. As a parent or caregiver, understanding your sensory seeker’s needs and providing appropriate support can greatly ease their transition into school life. In this blog, we will explore some helpful strategies to ensure a successful start to school for your sensory seeker. 1. Communicate w ..read more

Vestibular input is just one of eight senses that we receive sensory input from on a daily basis. If we are seeking more vestibular input or sensitive to the amount of vestibular input we are receiving it may make certain tasks very challenging.  Understanding vestibular input and SPD Sensory processing is how we take in information from our environment, interpret it then respond. We are all consistently processing sensory input during our days. This is how we interact with those around us and engage in activities.  When the sensory information we receive isn’t organized correctly we ..read more

For my last blog we explored the Spinal Galant Reflex and its connection to sensory processing disorder (SPD). If you missed it you can check it out here. The Palmar Grasp Reflex is one of the more commonly retained primitive reflexes, so we will talk about what it is, how it is impacted by SPD and vice versa, and what you can do to help. Plus, as here at Sensory Sid we are all about sensory processing, I will add a bonus of a couple of my favorite specific sensory strategies for a retained Palmar Grasp Reflex. Okay, what is the Palmar Grasp Reflex? Learn this, what to do when it is retai ..read more