What does SPD look like?

They may bump into things and appear clumsy. They may find bright lights, loud noises, or tags on clothing irritating. Children who are sensory avoiders may become upset by different fabrics or textures of food, and be resistant to grooming of hands and nails.

What does Sensory Processing Disorder look like?

Kids with sensory processing issues behave in ways that look confusing. They might react strongly to loud noises or bright lights, or complain that their clothes are uncomfortable. They may be clumsy or have trouble with fine motor skills like fastening buttons.

What are the 3 patterns of sensory processing disorders?

How do you identify SPD?

Can SPD be mistaken for autism?

SPD is diagnosed by an occupational therapist that is trained in sensory integration. A child with SPD can easily be misdiagnosed for a child with ASD due to sensory processing problems/symptoms children with autism experience.

Treating Children for Sensory Processing Disorder

What are the 2 core symptoms of autism?

The core symptoms of autism include impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors. There are no known efficacious treatments for the core social symptoms, although effects on repetitive behaviors are indicated with some data.

Can SPD affect speech?

Impact of SPD on Speech

When a child struggles with sensory processing disorder, not only is his/her daily behavior affected, but also the acquisition of speech can be impaired. Many children with SPD are also diagnosed with a speech delay or aphasia, a difficulty in conveying spoken language.

What does sensory overload look like?

Symptoms of sensory overload

difficulty focusing due to competing sensory input. extreme irritability. restlessness and discomfort. urge to cover your ears or shield your eyes from sensory input.

How do I know if my child has sensory issues?

If your child has a hard time gathering and interpreting those sensory inputs, they may show signs of sensory issues. These may include difficulty with balance and coordination, screaming, being aggressive when wanting attention, or jumping up and down frequently.

What are sensory seeking behaviors?

Sensory seeking behaviors typically include poor balance, coordination, and awareness of their body in space. Kids with sensory challenges or a sensory seeking disorder may also have decreased awareness of vestibular and/or proprioceptive input.

What is a sensory meltdown?

A sensory meltdown is a fight, flight or freeze response to sensory overload. It is often mistaken for a tantrum or misbehaviour. The main way to be able to tell the difference between a tantrum and a sensory meltdown is that tantrums have a purpose. They are designed to elicit a certain response or outcome.

How do you discipline a child with SPD?

Take a look at your child's behavior and see what senses they are looking to stimulate. Rather than punish them for engaging in a behavior, redirect them to another activity that stimulates their senses in a similar way. Explain why it's a better choice than the other behavior.

Can a child outgrow sensory processing disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder is frequently seen in children who have other conditions like autism spectrum disorder. Much like autism spectrum, the symptoms of this disorder exist on a spectrum. However, unlike autism, it is possible for the child to outgrow this disorder.

How do I know if my 3 year old has sensory issues?

Being very sensitive to the fit and texture of clothing, for example, refusing to wear anything with a tag or anything that feels “wrong” Refusing to brush their teeth or hair, or avoiding other activities that involve the senses, like haircuts. Not enjoying cuddles or touch, especially when it's unexpected.

Does my child have SPD?

Signs and symptoms can vary from child to child, but here are a few to look out for: Refuses to wear certain clothing or fabrics because they feel itchy, painful or just don't feel right. Is clumsy or constantly bumps into walls or objects. Reacts strongly to loud noises and bright lights.

Is ADHD a sensory processing disorder?

ADHD and SPD may look similar at passing glance, but it is important to remember that they are two different disorders. They have different causes, effect different areas of the brain by different mechanisms, and have different evidence-based treatments.

How do you calm a sensory child seeking?

What is a sensory diet?

A sensory diet is a group of activities that are specifically scheduled into a child's day to assist with attention, arousal and adaptive responses. The activities are chosen for that child's needs based on sensory integration theory.

How do you feed a child with sensory issues?

Depending on your child's food texture preference, serve either soft foods made using a food processor like creamy chicken salad or vegetables and proteins hidden in dips or for those who like a crunchy texture, serve fresh raw vegetables vs cooked or baked potato wedges instead of mashed potatoes.

What does overstimulation look like in autism?

Showing aggression or irritability. Complaining about sensitivity to noises, touch, or other senses. Refusing to interact with others.

Is SPD considered special needs?

While SPD may affect the child's auditory, visual, and motor skills, and the ability to process and sequence information, it is not, at present, specifically identified as a qualifying disability, making a child eligible for special education and related services.

What does ADHD overstimulation feel like?

Overstimulation. Many people with ADHD experience bouts of overstimulation, in which they feel bombarded by overwhelming sights and sounds. Crowded venues, such as concert halls and amusement parks, may trigger ADHD symptoms.

Do kids with SPD talk late?

Some children are highly sensitive to these sensations while others are under sensitive, and crave additional sensations. It is no surprise that children with SPD are often delayed in speech and/or language.

Is sensory processing disorder a neurological disorder?

What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)? It is a neurological condition that makes it difficult for the body to receive messages from the senses and turn them into the appropriate motor and behavioral responses.

Do sensory seekers talk?

It is not uncommon for a child with sensory processing disorder (SPD) to also receive speech services. SPD is especially common in those diagnosed with autism – research shows 78% of autistic children present with sensory difficulties!