Beyond the Tantrums: Recognizing Sensory Processing Issues in Children

When your child throws a tantrum over something seemingly small, it can be frustrating. As a parent, you may not always know whether it’s just typical behaviour or if something more is at play. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is often mistaken for behaviour problems, but the reality is that your child may be struggling with sensory input in ways that you can’t see. 

SPD occurs when the brain has difficulty processing and responding to information received through the senses. This can lead to intense reactions to certain sights, sounds, textures, or smells. Understanding the signs and how to support your child is crucial. 

Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder 

Recognizing SPD can be tricky, as children may not be able to express why they’re feeling overwhelmed.

Some common signs include: 

• Overreacting to Sensory Input: Your child may scream or cover their ears when exposed to loud noises, or they might refuse to touch certain textures. 

• Seeking Sensory Input: On the flip side, some children may seek excessive sensory input, such as rocking, spinning, or fidgeting. 

• Difficulty with Clothing or Food: Your child may refuse to wear certain clothes because of the texture or refuse to eat certain foods due to their taste or texture. 

• Social Withdrawal or Aggression: Overwhelmed children may withdraw from social interactions or show signs of aggression when exposed to certain stimuli. 

How Educational Therapy can help 

As an educational therapist, I work with children to help them manage sensory challenges. Through sensory integration therapy and other approaches, we can help children respond more appropriately to sensory input.

Some strategies include: 

• Creating Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Creating calm, predictable environments for children can help them regulate sensory overload. 

• Providing Sensory Breaks: Incorporating short, structured breaks throughout the day to allow children to reset and avoid becoming overstimulated. 

• Building Coping Strategies: Teaching children how to manage sensory overload with relaxation techniques or alternative coping mechanisms. 

Supporting your child at home 

At home, there are ways to support your child in managing sensory processing issues: 

• Observe and Identify Triggers: Keep track of the environments or activities that seem to trigger sensory overload. 

• Offer Sensory Tools: Consider using weighted blankets, noise-cancelling headphones, or textured toys to help your child feel more comfortable. 

• Be Understanding: Understand that your child’s reactions are not intentional. Be patient and give them time to process and calm down. 

Connect with Total Communication 

If you suspect your child is dealing with Sensory Processing Disorder or another sensory issue, reach out to Total Communication.  

Our therapists can help your child develop strategies to cope with sensory challenges and grow both at home and in school. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your child. 

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Important links:

1. Speech Therapy

2. Educational Therapy

3. Enrichment Programmes