Have you ever wondered why your child covers their ears at birthday parties, gags at certain food textures, or seems to react to pain differently from other children? This could be Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).
Sensory Processing Disorder is when the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses.
What Does That Actually Mean?
Our senses constantly take in information from the world around us, including sound, touch, taste, smell, sight, movement, and body position. For most people, the brain processes these signals smoothly. For children with SPD, the brain may over-respond (too sensitive) or under-respond (needs more input) to certain sensory signals.
Common Examples
• Hates wearing socks or clothes with tags - over-sensitive to touch
• Seeks out spinning, jumping, or crashing into things - under-sensitive to movement
• Meltdowns at loud places like supermarkets or school assemblies
• Extreme picky eating - won’t touch certain textures
Is SPD the Same as Autism?
No. They can occur together, but they are not the same thing. Sensory sensitivities are a feature of autism, but sensory processing difficulties can also occur on their own or alongside ADHD, anxiety, or other conditions.
SPD is not a behaviour problem. It's a neurological difference, and it responds very well to occupational therapy.
If sensory responses are affecting your child's daily life, ask for a referral to a paediatric occupational therapist.
