Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition where the nervous system misinterprets sensory signals, causing difficulty responding to touch, movement, sight, or other sensations.

Sensory Processing , formerly referred to as “Sensory Integration”, is  a term referring to the way that the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. Whether you are eating waffles, riding a scooter, or reading a book, your successful completion of any activity requires processing many different sensations.

A Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) exists when sensory signals cannot organize themselves into appropriate responses. A child with SPD finds it difficult to process and act upon information received through the senses which, in turn can create severe challenges in performing a multitude of everyday tasks. Behavioral and social interaction problems, having trouble learning new skills, anxiety in unfamiliar settings, and school difficulties are a few ways that SPD can affect a child that does not receive effective treatment.

Sensory Processing Disorder can affect a child in one sense – just touch, sight, or movement – or in multiple senses. One child with SPD may over-respond to the touch sensation and find certain clothing or  physical contact  unbearable. Another might under-respond in reaction to stimulation – even pain or extreme hot and cold. Other children might perpetually seek out certain sensations. Children receiving impaired messages from their muscles and joints might experience poor posture and motor skills and, as a result, may have low self-esteem, and struggle academically.

People unaware of this disorder, including parents and educators, may label children with SPD as clumsy, uncooperative, disruptive, or “out of control.” Without an appropriate diagnosis and therapy, anxiety, depression, aggression, or other behavioral and social problems can follow.

Children with SPD can benefit from a treatment program of occupational therapy (OT). Treatment typically takes place in a sensory-rich environment sometimes called an “OT gym.” During OT sessions, the therapist guides the child through fun activities that are very subtle, but challenging. The goal of OT is to foster appropriate responses to sensations in an active, meaningful, and fun way so the child is able to gain functional skills. Over time, the appropriate responses generalize to the environment beyond the clinic to include school, home, and the larger community. Effective treatment enables children with SPD to take part in the normal activities of childhood, such as playing with friends, enjoying school, eating, and dressing.

If you have questions about OT services, please call our office at (503) 352-0240 and ask to talk to one of our occupational therapists

Supporting Children With Sensory Processing Challenges

Sensory Processing Disorder can affect how a child participates in everyday activities, learns, interacts with others, and responds to their environment. With the right support, children can develop strategies and skills that help them respond to sensory experiences and participate more comfortably at home, school, and in the community.

At New Horizons Wellness Services, our team provides services that can support children with sensory processing and related developmental challenges, including:

● Occupational Therapy Services: Occupational therapy can help children develop functional skills and more appropriate responses to sensory input through individualized, meaningful activities. Pediatric occupational therapy may address sensory processing, motor skills, self-care, school participation, and other everyday activities. Our occupational therapy services also support adults who may experience sensory or functional challenges that affect daily life.

● Social Skills Groups: Children who experience sensory processing difficulties may also have challenges with social interaction, communication, or participating comfortably with peers. Social skills groups provide opportunities to practice appropriate social behaviors, communication, cooperation, and relationship-building skills in a supportive setting.

● Counseling Services: When sensory challenges contribute to anxiety, frustration, emotional difficulties, or challenges adjusting to unfamiliar situations, counseling can provide additional emotional and behavioral support. Counseling may complement other services by helping children and families develop healthy strategies for managing these challenges.

Every child experiences sensory information differently, so support should be tailored to the child’s individual needs and goals. If you are concerned about how sensory processing difficulties are affecting your child’s daily life, learning, behavior, or social interactions, speaking with a qualified professional can be an important first step toward finding appropriate support. Contact us now!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and how does it affect my child?

SPD occurs when the nervous system struggles to process sensory information correctly. Children with SPD may over- or under-respond to sensations, affecting their motor skills, behavior, learning, and social interactions.

How can I tell if my child might have SPD?

Signs include difficulty with daily tasks like dressing, eating, or participating in school activities, unusual responses to touch, movement, or sounds, and challenges with coordination or social interactions. A professional evaluation can help determine if SPD is present.

How does occupational therapy help children with SPD?

Occupational therapy provides structured, sensory-rich activities that teach children to respond appropriately to sensory input. Over time, these skills generalize to everyday environments, improving independence, social participation, and confidence.

Can SPD affect only one sense, or multiple senses at the same time?

SPD can affect one sense, like touch or movement, or multiple senses simultaneously. Children may over-respond, under-respond, or constantly seek specific sensory experiences, making personalized OT interventions essential.

What can families do at home to support a child with SPD?

Families can reinforce strategies learned in OT, provide sensory-friendly environments, and encourage participation in activities that support sensory development. Working closely with an occupational therapist ensures consistent, safe, and effective support at home.

EDITORIAL REVIEW BY MELODIE ETHEL-KING, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Melodie Ethel-King, OTR/L is a licensed Occupational Therapist at New Horizons Wellness Services with more than 30 years of clinical experience serving children, teens, and adults in community, medical, school, and home-based settings. She specializes in ADHD, autism, sensory processing, executive functioning, handwriting, and self regulation. She has extensive experience helping individuals develop practical strategies that improve participation at home, school, work, and in the community.

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