Understanding Sensory Processing Disorders in Children: Signs and Symptoms

Is Your Child Struggling with Sensory Challenges?

Does your child cover their ears at loud noises, avoid messy play, or seem "too rough" when playing with others? Maybe they chew on their shirt sleeves, spin in circles for fun, or hate the feeling of certain clothing fabrics. If any of these sound familiar, your child may be experiencing sensory processing challenges.

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) can help parents support their child’s unique needs and create an environment where they can thrive. In this post, we’ll break down what SPD is, the signs to look for, and what you can do to help.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

Sensory Processing Disorder occurs when the brain has difficulty receiving, organising, and responding to sensory information. This can include touch, sound, movement, taste, and more. Some children may be overly sensitive (hypersensitive) to certain stimuli, while others may be under-sensitive (hyposensitive) and crave more sensory input.

SPD is a spectrum. Some children have mild sensory differences that only affect certain activities, while others experience more significant challenges in daily life. SPD can exist on its own or alongside other conditions like autism, ADHD, or developmental delays.

The 8 Sensory Systems and How They Affect Kids

Most people are familiar with the five senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell), but SPD also involves three additional sensory systems:

• Vestibular (balance & movement) – Affects coordination, dizziness, and the need for movement.
• Proprioception (body awareness) – Impacts how much force a child uses (e.g., writing pressure, rough play).
• Interoception (internal body signals) – Helps children recognise hunger, thirst, and bathroom needs.
  
  

Children with SPD may struggle with one or multiple sensory systems, leading to challenges in daily activities.

Signs and Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder

SPD looks different for every child, but common signs fall into two main categories: hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity.

Hypersensitivity (Over-Responsive to Sensory Input)

Some children experience sensory input more intensely than others. These kids may:

• Cover their ears with loud noises like hand dryers or sirens.
• Dislike certain clothing textures, tags, or seams.
• Avoid messy play (e.g., finger painting, sand, slime).
• Get startled easily by sudden touch or unexpected movement.
• Be picky eaters, rejecting foods based on texture rather than taste.
• Struggle with bright lights or crowded, noisy environments.
  
  

Hyposensitivity (Under-Responsive & Sensory Seeking)

Some children need more sensory input to feel regulated. These kids may:

• Constantly fidget, spin, or jump.
  
• Love rough play and seem unaware of their own strength.
  
• Not notice pain easily (e.g., falls but doesn’t cry).
  
• Chew on clothing, pencils, or fingers.
• Enjoy deep pressure like tight hugs or weighted blankets.
  
  

Mixed Sensory Responses

Some children show both hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity, depending on the situation. For example, a child may dislike loud noises but crave deep pressure (like weighted blankets or tight hugs).

How Sensory Challenges Affect Daily Life

SPD can make everyday activities overwhelming or frustrating for children. Here’s how sensory challenges might show up in different areas of life:

School Performance – Difficulty sitting still, handwriting struggles, or sensitivity to classroom noises.

Social Interactions – Trouble understanding personal space, avoiding touch, or engaging in overly rough play.

Self-Care & Routines – Resistance to brushing teeth, wearing certain clothes, or taking baths due to sensory discomfort.

Sleep – Difficulty winding down at night due to sensory overload or an under-responsive nervous system.

What Parents Can Do to Help

If you suspect your child has sensory challenges, here are some ways to support them at home:

Observe and Identify Triggers – Keep a journal of sensory triggers and patterns in your child’s behaviour.

Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment – Use noise-canceling headphones, dim lighting, or a quiet space when needed.

Offer Sensory-Friendly Tools – Fidget toys, weighted blankets, and chewy necklaces can help regulate sensory input.

Incorporate Sensory Activities – Try activities like swinging, playing with playdough, or jumping on a trampoline to help balance sensory needs.

Use Visual Schedules & Routines – Step-by-step visual guides can make daily tasks easier and reduce frustration.

Seek Professional Support – A paediatric occupational therapist (OT) can assess sensory needs and provide personalised strategies to help your child thrive.

Final Thoughts

Sensory Processing Disorder can be challenging, but understanding your child’s unique sensory needs is the first step to helping them succeed. With the right support, children with SPD can learn to manage sensory input and feel more comfortable in their daily lives.

If you suspect your child has sensory processing difficulties, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for guidance or consider purchasing our Personalised Sensory Assessment to gain a deeper insight into your child's sensory profile. You’re not alone in this journey, and with the right tools and support, your child can thrive!

Have questions or experiences to share? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!