Hello, wonderful parents! Ever noticed your child’s unique reactions to the world around them? Today, we’re embarking on a journey to understand and support sensory challenges in kids. In this guide, we’ll explore real-life examples, tiny signals that can help us detect these challenges, and the collaborative role parents and Occupational Therapy (OT) play in fostering a supportive environment for our little ones.
- The Sound Symphony:
- Example: If your child covers their ears at loud sounds or becomes distressed in noisy environments, this could signal auditory sensitivities. How can OT and parents collaborate? OT might introduce sound desensitization activities, and parents can create quiet spaces at home for relaxation.
- Textural Tendencies:
- Example: A child exhibiting discomfort with specific textures might struggle with tactile sensitivities. OT can introduce tactile activities to desensitize, while parents can gradually expose the child to various textures during play or daily routines.
- Visual Vibes:
- Example: Unusual reactions to certain visual stimuli might indicate visual sensitivities. OT can incorporate visual tracking exercises, and parents can create a visually calming environment with soft lighting and neutral colors.
- Taste Tales:
- Example: Extreme food preferences or resistance to certain textures may suggest taste sensitivities. OT might introduce oral motor exercises, and parents can gradually introduce new tastes in a supportive and positive manner.
- Smell Stories:
- Example: A child’s strong aversion or fascination with smells may be tied to olfactory sensitivities. OT could introduce smell-based activities, and parents can create a comfortable, scent-controlled space at home.
- Movement Marvels:
- Example: Seeking or avoiding specific movements can indicate sensory needs related to proprioception and vestibular input. OT might introduce activities that provide deep pressure, and parents can incorporate movement breaks into daily routines.
- Social Sensory Cues:
- Example: Challenges with personal space or discomfort in social settings might be tied to sensory processing difficulties. OT can work on social skills development, and parents can provide guidance on navigating social interactions.
- Daily Routine Dynamics:
- Example: Resistance to daily activities like getting dressed may be linked to sensory sensitivities. OT can introduce strategies for smooth transitions, and parents can create a visual schedule to help their child anticipate routines.
- Transitions and Time Telling:
- Example: Difficulty with transitions can signal sensory challenges. OT might introduce transition strategies, and parents can provide consistent routines with visual cues to ease transitions.
- Communication Clues:
- Example: Verbal expressions of discomfort or sensory-related phrases are essential cues. OT can work on communication strategies, and parents can encourage open communication, providing a safe space for their child to express sensory experiences.
If interested in seeking occupational therapy services in Florida, please reach out to Exceptional Speech Therapy. Let’s navigate this sensory journey together!
-Andrea Scola, M.S., CCC-SLP
