Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

Do you find that your child has inappropriate responses to sensory input related to smell, touch, body position and taste? This means the system that receives, processes, and responds to sensory input might be negatively impacted and result in your child experiencing social and functional challenges in everyday life. If so, we are here to help your child and your family understand why they may exhibit these behaviors. If you notice your child engaging in any of the behaviors listed below it is important to get a comprehensive sensory evaluation from our occupational therapists. From this evaluation, the OT will work with your child and family to determine the best course of treatment based on your child’s sensory needs.

Hypersensitive Behaviors

• Aversions to bright lights

• Covers their ears when they hear loud noises

• Extra sensitive to light touch (does not like hugs)

• Extra sensitive to different textures (clothing or food related)

• Loss of concentration due to sensory overstimulation 

• Acting out in response to sensory overstimulation

• Difficulty controlling emotions

• Aversions to food smells

• Might engage in picky eating behaviors 

• Dislikes loud environments

Hyposensitive Behaviors

• Crave deep pressure 

• Do not notice painful stimuli 

• May have many bruises from bumping into objects in their environment

• Constantly putting objects in their mouth 

• Seeks constant movement (spinning, jumping, running)

• Does not register personal space