Raising a child is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and discoveries. This journey can be even more complex for parents of children with sensory processing disorders (SPD). As an occupational therapist and a parent who has walked this path, I’d like to share some insights to help you support your child with SPD.
First, let’s understand what SPD is. We often think of the five senses: sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. But as occupational therapists, we consider three more: proprioception, vestibular, and interoception.
Proprioception, often referred to as the hidden sixth sense, helps us understand where our body is in space and how our limbs are moving. Activities like squeezing an orange or lifting weights can provide proprioceptive feedback.
The vestibular sense, or balance sense, helps with balance, coordination, and alertness. Activities like swinging or jumping can stimulate this sense.
Interoception, a lesser-known sense, helps us understand what’s happening inside our bodies. Kids struggling with this sense might have trouble knowing when they’re hungry, full, or thirsty, which can make self-regulation difficult.
Children with SPD may have trouble interpreting and responding to sensory information from their environment. They might be hypersensitive (overresponsive) or hyposensitive (underresponsive) to sensory stimuli, or a mix of both. These challenges can affect their daily life, behavior, and overall well-being.
If you suspect your child is showing signs of SPD, here are some steps you can take:
1. **Educate Yourself**: Learn about SPD. Understanding sensory processing and recognizing your child’s specific sensory challenges will help you make informed decisions and provide appropriate support. Consult reliable sources and professionals specializing in sensory integration.
2. **Seek Professional Help**: An occupational therapist trained in sensory integration techniques can assess your child’s sensory needs, design personalized therapy plans, and provide you with effective strategies to use at home.
Parenting a child with SPD can be overwhelming, and it’s important to avoid some common mistakes:
1. **Ignoring or Dismissing Behaviors**: Don’t ignore or dismiss your child’s sensory challenges. Acknowledge and validate their experiences to foster a trusting relationship.
2. **Overwhelming Environments**: Avoid exposing your child to excessive sensory stimuli. Understand their triggers and create a sensory-friendly environment at home.
3. **Pushing Too Hard**: Encourage your child’s growth, but don’t push them beyond their comfort zone. Respect their boundaries and provide opportunities for gradual exposure to challenging sensory situations.
Remember, you’re not alone in navigating the world of sensory processing challenges. Here are some resources for additional support:
1. **Support Groups and Online Communities**: Connect with other parents and caregivers facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences and strategies can provide emotional support and practical advice.
2. **Parenting Workshops and Webinars**: Attend workshops or webinars tailored to parenting children with SPD. These sessions can provide practical tools and a deeper understanding of your child’s needs.
3. **Advocacy Organizations**: Organizations like the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation or STAR Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder offer comprehensive resources for parents.
Raising a child with sensory processing challenges requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to learn. By understanding SPD, avoiding common mistakes, and seeking additional help, you can create an environment that supports your child’s unique needs. Your love and unwavering support will guide your child as they navigate the sensory world. Let’s embrace the journey and celebrate their progress every step of the way.
