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Could My Child Have SPD?

February 28, 2025 by jennifer Leave a Comment

Are you asking yourself – could my child have SPD – Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how the brain interprets sensory information from the environment.

Children with SPD may overreact, underreact, or seek certain sensory inputs in ways that impact their daily life.

If your child struggles with textures, sounds, movement, or other sensations in a way that seems extreme, you may be wondering if SPD is the cause.

Are you asking yourself - could my child have Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how the brain interprets sensory information from the environment.

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What Is Sensory Processing Disorder?

SPD occurs when the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to sensory information. This includes touch, sound, sight, taste, smell, movement (vestibular), and body awareness (proprioception). While some children may be overly sensitive to certain stimuli, others may not respond enough or seek intense sensory input.

Signs of Sensory Processing Challenges

Every child processes sensory input differently, but some common signs of SPD include:

Over-Responsive (Sensory Avoidant) Behaviors:

  • Easily overwhelmed by loud noises or bright lights
  • Avoids certain textures in clothing, food, or surfaces
  • Strong reactions to being touched, even lightly
  • Fear of swinging, climbing, or other movement-based activities

Under-Responsive (Sensory Seeking) Behaviors:

  • Seeks intense movement, such as spinning or crashing into things
  • Doesn’t notice messy hands, faces, or clothing
  • High pain tolerance or lack of response to extreme temperatures
  • Constantly touching objects or people

Difficulty with Regulation and Coordination:

  • Frequent meltdowns due to overstimulation
  • Trouble with balance, coordination, or motor skills
  • Difficulty sitting still, focusing, or following instructions

What to Do If You Suspect SPD

If your child exhibits sensory challenges that interfere with daily activities, it’s helpful to:

  1. Observe Patterns: Keep a journal of sensory triggers and behaviors.
  2. Talk to a Professional: Pediatric occupational therapists specializing in sensory integration can assess your child and provide support.
  3. Make Sensory-Friendly Adjustments: Providing weighted blankets, noise-reducing headphones, sensory-friendly clothing, or movement breaks can help regulate sensory input.

Next Steps

SPD is not an official medical diagnosis but is often recognized and treated by occupational therapists.

If sensory difficulties impact your child’s ability to function at home, school, or in social settings, seeking professional guidance can make a big difference.

With the right strategies and support, children with sensory challenges can thrive.

CLICK HERE: Could My Child Have SPD

Sensory Processing Disorder Resources

  • Sensory Processing Disorder, What Is It?
  • Sensory Processing Explained – A Handbook for Parents and Educators
  • Sensory Processing Posters
  • Sensory Processing Starter Kit
  • Basics of Sensory Processing Mini-Workshop
  • Sensory Processing Overload Signs
  • Overcoming Sensory Meltdowns

Learn more about Sensory Processing Disorder:

The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing DifferencesThe Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing DifferencesThe Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing DifferencesRaising a Sensory Smart Child: The Definitive Handbook for Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing IssuesRaising a Sensory Smart Child: The Definitive Handbook for Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing IssuesRaising a Sensory Smart Child: The Definitive Handbook for Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing IssuesUnderstanding Your Child's Sensory Signals: A Practical Daily Use Handbook for Parents and TeachersUnderstanding Your Child’s Sensory Signals: A Practical Daily Use Handbook for Parents and TeachersUnderstanding Your Child's Sensory Signals: A Practical Daily Use Handbook for Parents and TeachersHelping Your Child with Sensory Regulation: Skills to Manage the Emotional and Behavioral Components of Your Child's Sensory Processing ChallengesHelping Your Child with Sensory Regulation: Skills to Manage the Emotional and Behavioral Components of Your Child’s Sensory Processing ChallengesHelping Your Child with Sensory Regulation: Skills to Manage the Emotional and Behavioral Components of Your Child's Sensory Processing Challenges

 

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Filed Under: SPD Information Tagged With: child could have spd, signs child could have sensory processing disorder, signs child could have spd

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