Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder and Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Does your child easily become overwhelmed in a crowded grocery store? Do you ever notice that they seem to be in constant movement, always bumping into things or fidgeting at their desk? If so, they might benefit from pediatric occupational therapy for sensory processing disorder.

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) occurs when the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information from the senses. Children with SPD might be overly sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or even tastes. Others may not respond to sensory input as expected, seeking intense sensory experiences to feel “just right.”

SPD can make everyday experiences overwhelming, but with help from the occupational therapists at Flourishing Lives, your child can learn to navigate these challenges. We’ll work with your child to create personalized strategies to improve their ability to process and respond to sensory information. Best of all, we use fun, engaging activities to help your child feel more comfortable and in control of their environment.

Not sure if your child has SPD? Curious about what’s involved in pediatric occupational therapy for sensory processing disorders? Keep reading–or schedule an appointment at our St Clair Shores, MI clinic for more personalized information.

How Do I Know if My Child Has a Sensory Processing Disorder?

At its root, sensory processing disorder causes children to react to sensory input in unexpected ways. What this looks like exactly will depend on your child and how their brain interprets and responds to environmental sensory stimuli.

Some children with SPD will experience overstimulation, which occurs when the brain perceives sensory input as too intense. For example, a child might find common sounds like a vacuum cleaner or loud music absolutely unbearable. They might be sensitive to textures and avoid certain fabrics or foods, or they might become overly anxious or upset in environments that seem ordinary to others (for example, a classroom).

However, SPD can also manifest with understimulation, which occurs when the brain does not register sensory input adequately. Children with this type of SPD might seek out intense sensory experiences to feel engaged. For example, they may purposely bump into objects or walls, put inedible objects (like rocks) into their mouths, or constantly move and fidget to stimulate their senses.

Regardless of how your child experiences SPD, it’s important to remember that it does not result from poor parenting or behavior problems. Instead, it is a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information. Specialized therapy can help your child manage their condition.

Sensory Processing Disorder and Pediatric Occupational Therapy: What to Expect

One of the primary methods for addressing SPD is a technique known as sensory integration therapy. This approach involves fun–but structured–activities designed to help children respond more appropriately to sensory input. 

To an adult, sensory integration therapy often looks like playtime. And it’s definitely playful! However, we choose activities that specifically expose your child to challenging sensory inputs. For example:

• Playing in a ball pit provides tactile feedback and helps the child tolerate different textures.
• Swinging provides vestibular input to improve balance and spatial awareness.
• Exploring a sensory bin filled with rice, beans, or sand helps the child feel more comfortable with different textures and improves their fine motor skills. 

Pediatric occupational therapy for sensory processing disorder might include additional techniques as well. Deep pressure therapy involves applying firm, gentle pressure to the body, helping to calm an overstimulated child.  We might do this through weighted blankets, compression vests, or even gentle massages. 

We might also help develop a sensory diet, a personalized plan of physical activities and various accommodations to help your child manage their symptoms. For example, if your child is feeling understimulated, we’d suggest they perform some jumping jacks or use a fidget toy.

Get Started with Pediatric Occupational Therapy Today!

Pediatric occupational therapy for sensory processing disorder is a fun and effective way to help your child manage their sensory difficulties. At Flourishing Lives, we tailor every treatment plan to suit your child’s specific symptoms and interests, creating a program they’ll enjoy.

Are you curious to learn if your child might benefit? Schedule an appointment at our St Clair Shores, MI clinic today!