Sensory processing refers to how we register and interpret sensory input from the environment around us, and from within our body. It is the way the brain receives, organises and responds to this sensory input that enables us to meaningfully engage with the world around us. We have 5 external senses – taste, touch, smell, vision, and hearing, and 3 internal senses – our vestibular system, proprioceptive system, and interoception.
The way we interpret and respond to sensory input is different for each of us. What might be a loud noise for one person, might not register for another, or the size of my personal space bubble might be very different from yours!
When we have difficulty processing sensory information, this can impact our engagement with everyday tasks and activities. For example, we might not like the feel of a shirt, or messy play. We might find the environment around us too noisy, or dislike different food textures and tastes. These challenges might impact our ability to get dressed in the morning, engage in play with our peers at preschool or school, join activities such as school assembly or going to the shops, or eat a range of foods.
As difficulty processing sensory information can impact a child’s ability to engage in everyday tasks and activities, occupational therapists play a key role in supporting children and their families. This often involves assessing a child’s sensory processing to understand key strengths and challenges, to then implement strategies to support the child to engage with the tasks and activities which are challenging throughout their day. Sometimes this can include strategies directly with the child, or making changes at home, school or preschool to support.
Often parents ask how they know if their child has sensory processing challenges. Our general rule of thumb is that if you find your child is having big responses to different sensory inputs, or avoiding certain tasks, which are starting to impact your day-to-day life, such as getting dressed, going out, eating new foods, or trying new things at the park, it is probably worthwhile reaching out to an OT for support.
If you have any questions, please reach out to our OT team for further information!
