What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing refers to how we process and filter sensory input & stimuli from our surrounding environment.
1 in 20 people have sensory processing disorder (SPD) – this means that in some or many ways, this lack of ability to filter out certain stimuli, affects and impacts their daily life in a negative way. SPD is typically seen in kids with Autism.
This can look like:
- getting incredibly irritated or distracted by tags, stitching in clothes, certain fabrics (feels like burning), bug bites, flashing lights, sunlight, certain smells, listening to someone chew or breath
- aversions to personal hygiene routines like showering (air or water on bare skin), washing hair, brushing hair, brushing teeth, haircuts
- not being able to focus on one voice in a room (inability to block out background noise) – this may look like not listening/not paying attention
- feeling overwhelmed in crowds
This can result in:
Outbursts, meltdowns or shutdowns where…
- so much energy going towards trying to process sensory information around you
- as a result you get exhausted quickly
- being tired reduces your ability to manage overwhelming situations well
- you become more and more short tempered as you reach your tipping point
- add in extra sensory input like someone trying to get you to join in, try harder or telling you off for bad behaviour…
- how do you feel?
- how do you react?
Different Sensory Stimuli that can be either overwhelming or what we seek to feel calm:
Find this printable in Little Wooden Toybox’s Sensory & Emotional Regulations Pack
Autism Parenting Podcast:
Join Tash as she talks about day-to-day life with Autism; the sucky bits and the wins, plus tips for enjoying life despite the challenges.
Sensory and Emotional Regulation Pack
47 pages | Digital Download | $19AU
✅ stay calm & well regulated
✅ get organised
✅ gain independence
✅ make home life calmer and happier 💖
Training Bites Library:
Advocating for kids who see, process and experience the world differently with ‘bite size’ pieces of information to help teach and understand a variety of behaviour, education and life skills topics.
