Becoming a sensory-aware parent: Understanding sensory processing disorder (SPD)

Have you ever noticed your child getting unusually upset by loud noises, or going out of their way to avoid certain textures? Maybe they seem overly cautious on the playground, struggle with transitions or are constantly in motion. If these scenarios sound familiar, there’s a term that might bring some clarity: sensory processing disorder (SPD). 

Quality of life is driven, in many ways, by our ability to take in and regulate sensory information from our environment. The way we move, absorb information, engage socially with others, and adapt to changes in the environment has everything to do with sensory processing. Here’s what to know about sensory processing disorder (SPD), how best to support your child’s uniquely developing brain, and how to manage your own sensory needs as a parent. 

What is sensory processing disorder?

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition in which the brain has trouble processing sensory stimuli from the environment. Most of us are familiar with our senses in the way we see, hear, smell, taste or touch. But SPD can also affect three lesser known sensory systems: vestibular, the center for balance and coordination, interoceptive, which helps you notice what’s going on inside of your body, and proprioceptive, the system that helps us to move our body appropriately, particularly related to positioning and applied force. 

At this time, sensory processing disorder is considered within the broader context of other diagnoses, like autism, ADHD and developmental disorders, and it’s worth noting that SPD is not an official diagnosis in the medical or mental health community. 

In her book, “The Out of Sync Child,” Carol Kranowitz first introduced SPD as a stand-alone nervous system disorder in 1998. Still, more research is needed and more work needs to be done to ensure parents, providers and teachers are more aware of SPD and its potential impacts on a child’s life. 

“Sensory integration differences can show up as over-responsive or under-responsive to sensory stimuli, such as being bothered by certain textures, sounds or smells,” says occupational therapist Dr. Brooke Weinstein, OTD, OTR/L. She highlights how important it is to understand our children, and ourselves, especially as it relates to our sensory systems. 

“It’s wild to me that most of us are living life not understanding how our engine runs,” she says. “We need to know what is under the hood of the car in order for it to run well. Our brains are the same way.”

But how do you figure out your child’s sensory makeup and needs? Careful observation is key. “Pay close attention to how they react to different sensory stimuli,” urges Dr. Weinstein. “Observe responses to sounds, textures, lighting and other environmental factors. Take note of what seems to calm or agitate them. Encourage family members, especially children, to express their sensory preferences and needs.”

Signs of sensory processing disorder in kids

Signs of SPD in children might include: 

• Strong aversions or preferences for specific activities, such as avoiding messy play, or refusing to wear certain types of clothing
• Not noticing when someone calls their name
• Tripping over things
• Being constantly in motion
• Experiencing difficulty with transitions
• Struggling with changes in routine
• Moving from one task to another before completing them
• Difficulty with social interactions due to:
  • Discomfort with touch
  • Difficulty making eye contact
  • Challenges understanding personal space

Supporting SPD in children

Occupational therapy (OT) is often recommended for supporting a child with sensory processing disorder. This process involves creating a “sensory diet” of fun, stimulating activities that challenges their sensory system without overwhelming them. Therapy looks different for every child, depending on their unique sensory profile, however there are some strategies you can implement at home that will benefit any child with SPD.

Supporting your child’s sensory needs might look like:

• Creating a quiet zone for relaxation such as a cozy corner
• Adjusting the lighting 
• Organizing and decluttering
• Offering a basket of fidget toys
• Investing in a weighted blanket
• Establishing routines
• Taking sensory breaks
• Sharing your observations and concerns with other important adults in your child’s life (teachers, caregivers, grandparents, etc.)
• Creating an individualized educational plan (IEP) for your child
• Being an advocate for your child
• Encouraging your child to express their feelings and sensory preferences

You might rotate through these techniques and tools—and note that some may be more effective for your child than others, and at different times. Have an ongoing conversation with your child about what’s working and what isn’t, and adjust accordingly. Your child’s sensory needs will evolve as they grow, so flexibility, observation and communication are key. Consult your child’s pediatrician or an occupational therapist for recommendations specific to your unique child.

Parenting a child with SPD 

It’s no secret that parenting a child with SPD can be demanding and exhausting, and after years of seeing children and their parents in her own OT practice, Dr. Weinstein decided to pivot towards empowering parents with the information they need to become more sensory-aware. 

“I believe it is our human right to know exactly how our brain functions, why it craves certain things and avoids others, why it thrives in certain environments and struggles in others,” she says. “Once we understand that, we can truly support each individual to thrive in their unique way that honors who they are at their core.” That means yes, learning more about your child’s brain, but also your own. 

As you learn more about your child’s sensory profile, don’t be surprised if you begin to notice the similarities, or differences, in your own sensory processing system. “I often say, a brain, is a brain, is a brain, they just all function differently,” says Dr. Weinstein. 

Children aren’t the only ones who face sensory-related challenges. “Parents are at very high risk of experiencing sensory overload, especially in hectic, chaotic, and unpredictable situations,” Dr. Weinstein says. “Understanding their own individual sensory makeup will support them in recognizing when they are reaching their sensory limits. Finding coping strategies is crucial.”

To diminish parental burnout and avoid snapping at your kids, carve out time for activities that help regulate your own sensory processing system. Whether you implement a daily quiet time for yourself, invest in a set of noise-reducing ear plugs, or schedule regular dips in the pool for a calming effect on your nervous system, self-care can have an effective sensory twist. 

“When parents truly understand sensory regulation and the nervous system, they can engage in more effective parenting,” Dr. Weinstein asserts. “This includes creating an environment that supports the child’s sensory needs, implementing appropriate interventions, and effectively managing challenges. You can create a home where each member of your family thrives, including yourself! If I can do it, so can you.”

Sources

Chen WG, Schloesser D, Arensdorf AM, et al. The Emerging Science of Interoception: Sensing, Integrating, Interpreting, and Regulating Signals within the Self. Trends Neurosci. 2021;44(1):3-16.

Kranowitz CS. The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Differences. Tarcher/Perigee; 2022.

Miller LJ, Nielsen DM, Schoen SA, Brett-Green BA. Perspectives on sensory processing disorder: a call for translational research. Front Integr Neurosci. 2009;3:22.

Moon KM, Kim J, Seong Y, Suh BC, Kang K, Choe HK, Kim K. Proprioception, the regulator of motor function. BMB Rep. 2021;54(8):393-402.