Sensory Processing Issues

Learn about sensory processing issues, options for treatment, and more.

About Sensory Processing

Kids with sensory processing issues often react strongly to things like loud noises, bright lights, or scratchy clothes, and they may get very upset over unexpected changes. These behaviors happen because the child is having trouble processing the information they receive from their senses.

There are two types of sensory processing issues: hypersensitivity (when they are over-sensitive to sensory input and get overwhelmed easily) and hyposensitivity (when they are under-sensitive and need additional sensory input). Sensory issues are common in kids with autism or ADHD, but also in kids with no mental health diagnosis.

Sensory Processing Basics

Though many kids dislike loud noises or scratchy clothing, for kids with sensory processing issues these sensations may be dramatically intensified, leading them to do things like run away or melt down when they are overwhelmed. Our resources can help understand the cause of these behaviors and what parents can expect.

More Resources

Sensory Processing and School

School can be a challenging and overwhelming environment for kids with sensory processing issues because of bright lights, distracting noises, jostling kids and unexpected changes. They may respond by melting down during transitions, acting out, withdrawing, or resisting going to school.

Parenting Sensory-Challenged Kids

Sensory issues don’t only occur in school — everything from having their face washed to the texture of food can be an issue, and places from beaches to crowded stores to birthday parties can be challenging. Here are tips for parenting sensory challenged kids.

Cooperation in Kids With Sensory Issues

When kids with sensory issues aren’t cooperating, it usually isn’t because they are trying to be defiant. Our resources have strategies and tips for helping sensory challenged kids cooperate.

Help for Sensory Processing Issues

While there’s no cure or medication for sensory processing issues, there are treatments that help these kids overcome some of their challenges. Occupational therapy, and in particular sensory integration therapy, has been shown to help.