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So, what exactly is sensory processing?
Remember learning about the five senses in school? Well, here’s something exciting – we actually have 8 sensory systems! Let’s dive into the fascinating world of sensory processing and discover how our bodies take in and respond to all kinds of sensory input.
Understanding Our 8 Sensory Systems
1. Tactile (Touch)
- How we feel different textures
- Processing temperature
- Sensing pressure
- Understanding pain
- Responding to light and deep touch
2. Visual
- Processing what we see
- Understanding spatial relationships
- Recognizing colors and patterns
- Managing visual attention
- Dealing with different lighting
3. Auditory (Hearing)
- Processing sounds
- Filtering background noise
- Understanding speech
- Responding to volume
- Processing rhythm and music
4. Vestibular (Movement and Balance)
- Understanding where our body is in space
- Managing balance
- Processing head movements
- Coordinating eye movements
- Maintaining posture
5. Proprioception (Body Awareness)
- Knowing where our body parts are
- Understanding how much force to use
- Coordinating movements
- Managing body position
- Navigating space
6. Olfactory (Smell)
- Processing different scents
- Distinguishing between smells
- Managing strong odors
- Using smell for memory
- Responding to environmental scents
7. Gustatory (Taste)
- Processing different flavors
- Managing food textures
- Trying new foods
- Understanding temperature
- Dealing with different tastes
8. Interoception
- Internal body awareness
- Feeling hunger/fullness
- Understanding temperature
- Recognizing need for bathroom
- Sensing emotions in body
Sensory Processing in Daily Life
How Kids Process Sensory Input
- Some kids might be oversensitive
- Others might be undersensitive
- Many seek certain sensory experiences
- Some avoid particular sensations
- Each child is unique in their needs
Common Sensory Responses
- Hypersensitivity (Over-responsive)
- Hyposensitivity (Under-responsive)
- Sensory seeking
- Sensory avoiding
- Mixed responses
Creating Sensory-Friendly Environments
At Home
- Calm spaces
- Organized areas
- Proper lighting
- Comfortable textures
- Reduced noise
In the Classroom
- Flexible seating
- Quiet corners
- Movement breaks
- Visual supports
- Sensory tools
Fun Sensory Activities
Tactile Play Ideas
- Sensory bins
- Water play
- Sand activities
- Textured art
- Playdough exploration
Movement Activities
- Balance beams
- Jumping games
- Spinning activities
- Climbing challenges
- Dance moves
Visual Activities
- Light boxes
- Color sorting
- Pattern making
- I-Spy games
- Visual scavenger hunts
Auditory Activities
- Musical instruments
- Rhythm games
- Sound identification
- Listening activities
- Sound effects play
Creating a Sensory Diet
A sensory diet is a personalized activity plan that provides the sensory input a person needs. Here’s how to create one:
- Observe Needs
- Notice seeking behaviors
- Watch for avoiding behaviors
- Track daily patterns
- Identify triggers
- Note successful activities
- Plan Activities
- Morning routines
- School/work activities
- Afternoon breaks
- Evening calm down
- Transition supports
- Monitor and Adjust
- Track what works
- Note timing needs
- Adjust activities
- Add new ideas
- Remove unhelpful activities
Supporting Sensory Processing
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unusual responses to touch
- Balance difficulties
- Extreme food preferences
- Sound sensitivities
- Movement seeking/avoiding
When to Seek Help
- Daily life is impacted
- Learning is affected
- Social skills are challenged
- Behavior concerns increase
- Safety is a concern
Tips for Success
- Start Slow
- Introduce activities gradually
- Watch responses
- Build tolerance
- Celebrate progress
- Keep it fun
- Be Consistent
- Regular routines
- Predictable schedules
- Clear expectations
- Reliable supports
- Steady approach
- Stay Positive
- Encourage exploration
- Praise attempts
- Support challenges
- Build confidence
- Make it playful
Remember: Every person processes sensory information differently, and that’s perfectly okay! The key is finding what works for each individual and supporting their unique sensory needs.
Sensory Play Benefits
Learning Through Senses
- Developing fine motor skills
- Building gross motor abilities
- Enhancing language development
- Growing problem-solving skills
- Boosting creativity
Social-Emotional Growth
- Building confidence
- Developing independence
- Managing emotions
- Understanding others
- Creating relationships
Moving Forward
Understanding sensory processing helps us create better environments and support systems for everyone. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, these tools and strategies can help create successful sensory experiences!
Need more specific support? Consider working with an occupational therapist who can create personalized sensory strategies for your unique needs.