Sensory Seekers Children who are considered “sensory seekers” are those who have a higher neurological threshold for sensory input. They seek more sensory input in order to feel “normal” and regulated. Given the sensory cup example from the amazing OT Butterfly, the sensory seeking child has a very large sensory cup and they need more sensory input to fill that cup. Signs of a Sensory Seeker Here are some signs your child may be a sensoryContinue reading “Activities for Sensory Seekers”
Tag Archives: sensory processing disorder
The Importance of Tactile Sensory Play
The Tactile System The tactile system, or sense of touch refers to the information we receive through the receptors in our skin. These receptors monitor our sensations including light touch, pressure (deep touch), temperature, and pain. They help us discriminate things we touch and come in contact with such as textures, shapes, size, and weight (North Shore Pediatric Therapy). Touch receptors begin developing in the womb and start with the face (Morgan, J., 2017)! WhenContinue reading “The Importance of Tactile Sensory Play”
Sensory Processing
Happy Sensory Processing Awareness Month! Sensory processing is a very complex topic (and one of my favorites!). The brain receives input from the different senses and turns this input into a motor or behavioral response. For those with sensory processing differences, the information goes into the brain, but doesn’t get organized appropriately. Think of the brain like a file cabinet. Sensory input comes in as what we see, hear, touch, taste, smell, and when weContinue reading “Sensory Processing”
Fidget Tools for Focus
Everyone fidgets– you may bite your nails, play with your hair, doodle on your paper, or bounce your leg. “Fidgets” have become a common craze today in the world of our kids, but there is actually science behind why fidget tools help some kids focus. Some children’s brains are seeking more input to stay at the “just right” arousal level. For example, a child who is “seeking” sensory input may be constantly moving, wiggling, touchingContinue reading “Fidget Tools for Focus”
Tactile Sensitivities
Does your child struggle with getting dressed each morning? Do you have difficulty getting out the door while your child is crying in the middle of his/her room in only a diaper or undies? Does he/she cry, fight, and push away when you’re trying to put on their shirt, pants, socks, and shoes? Will he/she only wear long sleeve, spandex shirts that you’ve made sure to cut every tag out of? Tactile sensitivities may playContinue reading “Tactile Sensitivities”