Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
When the Senses Feel Too Much — or Not Enough
Every sound, smell, touch, or movement we experience sends messages to the brain. Most of us process these sensations automatically — we hear, feel, and react without thinking. But for some children and adults, these signals don’t flow smoothly.
That’s what happens in Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) — the brain has trouble organizing and responding to sensory information. The result can be overwhelm, discomfort, or confusion in everyday situations that most people find normal.
What Is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory Processing Disorder affects how the brain interprets messages from the senses — sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, movement, and body awareness.
For someone with SPD, sensory experiences can feel too strong (over-responsive) or too weak (under-responsive).
For example:
* A gentle tag on a shirt might feel unbearable.
* A loud classroom may feel chaotic and stressful.
* Or, some children may crave extra movement and pressure just to feel calm.
SPD can exist on its own, or it may appear alongside other conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, or learning difficulties.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Every child is different, but some common signs include:
1-Over-Responsive (Hypersensitive):
* Easily upset by loud noises or bright lights.
* Dislikes certain textures in clothing or food.
* Avoids messy play, hugs, or being touched unexpectedly.
* Reacts strongly to smells or tastes others don’t notice.
2- Under-Responsive (Hyposensitive):
* Seems unaware of pain or temperature.
* Doesn’t notice when hands or face are dirty.
* Craves movement — spinning, jumping, or bumping into things.
* Seeks constant touch or pressure to stay calm.
3- Mixed Patterns:
Some children show both — overreacting in certain situations and underreacting in others.
How It Affects Learning and Daily Life
Sensory challenges can affect focus, coordination, and emotional regulation. A child with SPD might struggle in busy classrooms, noisy cafeterias, or during group play.
They may be labeled as “fussy,” “distracted,” or “disruptive,” when in reality — their senses are working overtime.
With understanding and the right strategies, we can help children feel safe, calm, and ready to learn.
Support and Strategies
Here are a few ways to support children with sensory needs:
* Create calm, predictable routines.
* Offer sensory breaks — time to stretch, move, or use calming tools.
* Provide comfortable clothing and quiet spaces .
* Use weighted tools (like vests or lap pads) for deep pressure comfort.
* Work with an Occupational Therapist (OT) trained in sensory integration.
Every child’s sensory system is unique — what soothes one may overwhelm another. That’s why observation, patience, and individualized support are key. 🌿
🌻 A Gentle Reminder
Sensory Processing Disorder is not bad behavior — it’s the body’s way of saying, “I’m trying to make sense of the world.”
When we respond with empathy instead of frustration, we create an environment where children feel safe to explore, learn, and grow at their own pace.
✨ “When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows — not the flower.” 🌸