Sensory Processing

Sensory Processing Support for Children

Children experience and respond to sounds, textures, movement, and other sensations differently. When sensory experiences make daily activities difficult, occupational therapy can help explore what your child needs to participate more comfortably.

Continuity OT works with families to identify patterns, adjust activities or environments, and develop practical strategies that fit everyday routines.

Everyday examples

• Managing discomfort with clothing textures or grooming
• Finding supports for noisy or busy environments
• Incorporating appropriate movement opportunities
• Preparing for unfamiliar sensory experiences
• Adjusting routines to support participation

Self-regulation refers to the ability to manage and control one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors effectively. By addressing self-regulation challenges, occupational therapists can empower children to manage their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts more effectively, leading to improved academic performance, stronger social relationships, and overall well-being.

Self-Regulation

Text explaining a multi-faceted approach to sensory assessment, including assessments, observations, and interviews to evaluate sensory processing needs.
Diagram illustrating sensory input, processing, and response with three sections: 'Sensory Input' describing reception of sound, 'Processing' explaining organization and understanding, and 'Response' detailing adaptive actions.
A colorful infographic titled "the traditional 5" depicting five sensory organ icons: mouth, ear, eye, nose, and hand, each representing a sense: taste, hearing, vision, smell, and touch. Below each icon, characteristic traits and descriptive words are listed for each sense.
Diagram illustrating three sensory systems: vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoception, with descriptions of their functions regarding body awareness, sensations, and responses.

Vestibular

How our brains interpret and respond to information from the vestibular system, located in the inner ear. This system provides information about head movement, body position, and balance: Maintaining equilibrium.

Crucial for a wide range of activities, from everyday movements like walking and driving to more complex skills required in sports training. This vital sense relies on sensory signals originating from specialized receptors known as proprioceptors. These receptors are embedded within our muscles, tendons, joints, ligaments, and even our skin. They provide essential feedback to our brain about the position and movement of our body parts.

Proprioception