Sensory processing is such an important part of the way our children develop.
Each child processes sensory information in different ways, and a knowledge of the way your child processes sensory information can be so empowering in our parenting journey.
But, what exactly do we mean when we talk about sensory processing?
Sensory Input refers to the sensory experiences that take place in our environment. So sound is sensory input that we receive through our sensory receptors in our ears. Taste is the sensory input we receive through our sensory receptors called taste buds etc.
Sensory processing, often referred to as sensory integration, is the unconscious processing of our senses for use. It’s how our central nervous system, the different parts of our brains, receive and process the sensory input.
The way in which we process sensory information is dependent on the way we modulate it.
Some children are more sensitive, and experience sensory information at higher volumes. This is the way they modulate sensory input. Children that are more sensitive, and experience sensory input at higher volumes, need LESS input to register what they are experiencing. Children who are less sensitive, need MORE input to register, and may, in fact, seek out more input in order to put themselves in a good space.
Modulation of sensory input directly influences mood, emotional regulation, alertness and attention. So if a child experiences significantly “low or high” volumes of sensory input, this would have a huge implication for their mood, regulation, alertness (or sleep) and attention.
Children quite often have different volume control for different senses, and understanding the way your child processes each one of their different senses, can help us to be intentional about using sensory input to help our children regulate, and develop. Take some time to notice what types of sensory input affect your children, and how. If you feel like sensory processing is affecting your child significantly, an Occupational Therapist can help with strategies to manage specific sensory processing difficulties. In the next few articles, we will look at different sensory profiles, and what they look like.
Emma Wijnberg is an Occupational Therapist and Parenting Mentor at Little Lives Occupational Therapy. You can contact her on emma@littlelivesoccupationaltherapy.com or visit www.littlelivesoccupationaltherapy.com.