Many children have come to me for support for an array of behaviours. Over time, I have noticed that often below the surface of these behaviours are dysregulated sensory systems. This sensory root cause of behaviour is often overlooked as it is very difficult to see cause and effect in sensory behaviour and by the time behaviour manifests, it is largely a result of sensory under/overload.
Sensory behaviour is often masked by the children at school and many times even teachers are unaware. Parents are often flummoxed by their children’s huge or inappropriate response – a simple request or instruction can lead to a pool of tears or fit of anger.
Sensory children often feel very overwhelmed and out of control; they thrive on routine and ritual and are often completely thrown by a change in routine or expectation. Some sensory children have specific spots for specific toys and get quite upset when their things are out of place. It’s all about control for them as they are trying to regain a sense of control in their environment.
Mouths are very sensitive and sensory children often use their mouths to regulate by chewing, sucking or blowing. They may bite their nails, grind their teeth, and suck their thumbs, battle to lose a dummy /bottle or often have their shirts in their mouths. They may be very picky eaters, for example, they may not like having certain texture foods mixed together or even on the same plate.
Sensory behaviour may defensive or seeking. For example, some children will avoid certain textures (defensive) or some children may seek out certain textures – even rough ones such as sequins (seeking). Some are auditory defensive; often covering their ears to certain volumes or pitches of sounds and other times are auditory seeking – especially if the noise is their choice and volume – they may sing, whistle or make noises as they work or play.
Sensory children often love deep pressure hugs, massages and deep muscle work such as pushing and pulling. They are often the first on the trampoline or swings. Some sensory children feel car sick when they travel.
Over time, sensory input accumulates and if it is not consistently regulated, the child feels dysregulated and an inappropriate response manifests as a release to this sensory build-up.
There is help for children and parents of sensory children. Both OT and counselling involving play/ art/narrative intervention are recommended for sensory children. This will help them grow in their emotional intelligence and feel more regulated while learning all about their sensory self. The ultimate goal is to teach self-regulation. There are many sensory trained occupational therapists working in most schools. These therapies often complement each other beautifully.
By Tamzen Smith, Pastoral Counsellor