Episode | Sensory Processing Disorder

Hello, dear parents, welcome to another episode of our podcast. 

My name is Susan, I’ll be you narrator, sharing the expert guidance and training provided by Efrat Hazaz, a parenting consultant and co-founder of the Makes Kids Happier Center.

Today, we’ll be diving into a topic that often gets overlooked in mainstream discussions about child development – Sensory Processing Disorder or SPD. We’ll walk you through what it is, the signs to look out for, and ways you can support your child if they have this disorder.

Imagine you’re at a birthday party – kids are laughing, the smell of pizza is wafting in the air, balloons of bright colors are all around, and there are games underway. Sounds like a fun day, doesn’t it? But for some children, this sensory-rich environment can be overwhelming and distressing. This might be the case for a child with Sensory Processing Disorder, or SPD.

So what exactly is Sensory Processing Disorder? In simple terms, SPD is a condition where the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. Kids with SPD may seem overly sensitive to stimuli that most of us wouldn’t even notice, or they might under-react to things that should be noticeable.

Recognizing the signs of SPD is a crucial first step in understanding your child’s unique needs. So, what might these signs be? They can be overreaction or under-reaction to sensory stimuli, difficulties with balance and movement, struggles with changes in routine, problems figuring out where their bodies are in relation to objects around them, or challenges with fine motor skills, like buttoning a shirt.”

After understanding the signs, how can we help children with SPD navigate their world more comfortably? The first strategy is to seek professional help. Occupational therapists who specialize in sensory integration therapy can be invaluable. They can assess your child’s specific needs and develop an individualized plan to help them learn to respond more effectively to sensory inputs.

Second, try to create a sensory-friendly environment at home. If your child is sensitive to bright light, consider using dimmer switches or blinds. If loud noises are a trigger, a quiet retreat space can be a safe haven.

Third, practice sensory activities. These activities can help children with SPD become more comfortable with different sensory experiences. Examples might include playing with sensory bins filled with sand or water, or doing arts and crafts.

Fourth, consider implementing a sensory diet. This is a series of physical activities and accommodations personalized to provide the sensory input a person needs. An occupational therapist usually designs this.

Fifth, you might want to explore tools specifically designed to help children with SPD. These could include items like weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, or chewable jewelry.

Lastly, try to build routines and prepare for transitions. Changes can be hard for children with SPD. Predictable routines can help, as well as preparing your child for upcoming transitions like moving from playtime to mealtime.

Remember, Sensory Processing Disorder can present some challenges, but with understanding, patience, and the right strategies, children with SPD can thrive. Keep in mind, your child’s reactions are not a matter of being ‘difficult’ or ‘naughty.’ They are genuinely experiencing the world in a different way. Your understanding, patience, and acceptance provide your child with the crucial support they need to manage their SPD.

This journey of supporting a child with SPD means celebrating small victories and remembering that all progress, no matter how small, is still progress. SPD doesn’t define your child; it’s just one aspect of their incredibly unique journey. With continued awareness and better support in homes, schools, and communities, we can help children with SPD not only cope but thrive in their own unique ways.

And with that, we come to the end of our episode. We hope it’s been insightful and helpful for those dealing with SPD. As always, we are here to support you, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of our children.

Thanks for joining us again. Stay kind, stay understanding, and remember – every child is unique. With that in mind, let’s work together to make our kids happier.