Sensory Processing Disorder: Help for Sensory Avoiders

Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurological disorder that affects how a person regulates external stimuli. Some people are sensory seekers because their perception of sensations are set too "low" and they need extra stimuli to feel the sensation. Other people are sensory avoiders because sensations appear many times magnified than it would for anther person.

Sensory avoiders tend to be more laid back because they are avoiding most sensations. However, if you get a child with a sensitivity to sound in a loud room that child is sure to become frustrated. Since sensations are hard to regulate, the person reverts to their instinctual fight or flight mode and a child may not know how to handle these feelings.

Children with SPD who have issues with texture and taste may have problems eating. One way to help them become used to touching food is to have them start with their fingers. Give your child a "dump bowl" which is simply an empty bowl next to their plate of food. If the child doesn't want to eat their food they have to pick it up with their fingers and put it in the dump bowl. Once they are used to touching it, which can take weeks or months, try to encourage them to put it to their lips before putting it in the dump bowl or even licking it.

Stimulation may help awaken the senses in the mouth and make your child more likely to eat. If your child likes sour things, you can let your child use a sour spray before eating. You can also try a Nuk baby gum toothbrush to brush your child's cheeks and tongue. Before brushing, you should consult an occupational therapist for proper instructions.

Many sensory avoiders will avoid playground activities such as swings or climbing. Encourage your child to climb and swing. If he attempts things slow that's fine, offer encouragement that he is trying. Be there to help your child overcome any fears or anxiety about climbing. Assure him it is safe and that you are there to catch him if he falls.

Children with Sensory Processing Disorder often will not finger paint or otherwise get messy. Let him use a paint brush with finger paints and you can finger paint beside him. When he is comfortable with this, let him cover his finger with a plastic bag and finger paint with his finger covered. Eventually, you may be able to get him to finger paint with just a finger.

If you feel your child might have SPD please see your pediatrician or an occupational therapist for an evaluation and treatment. With occupational therapy, most kids with SPD will who great improvements. Parenting a sensory avoider can be a challenge but it is rewarding to see your child overcome his obstacles and work as hard as he can.