Sensory Processing Disorder: Definition and Symptoms of Children with SPD

Perhaps you have a child who is experiencing sensory issues or a teacher noticing a student or two out-of-sync. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a disability that needs more recognition. With proper therapy, children will learn and cope with daily sensory struggles.

As described by my child's occupational therapist, everyone has a sensory system. We all have likes and dislikes. Problems can arise when a child strongly dislikes touch, sound, sight, and/or smell. In some cases these strongly disliked sensations prevent children from interacting, learning and experiencing the world within their senses. Their learning and world becomes limited.

According to the book, The Out-of-Sync Child written by Carol Stock Kranowitz M.A., SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) can cause a bewildering variety of symptoms. When their central nervous systems are ineffective in processing sensory information, children have a hard time functioning in daily life. They may look fine and have superior intelligence, but may be awkward and clumsy, fearful and withdrawn, or hostile and aggressive. SPD can affect not only how they move and learn, but also how they behave, how they play and make friends, and especially how they feel about themselves.

Sensory Processing Disorder is an updated terminology slowly, but steadily taking over the term Sensory Integration Dysfunction (SID). Sensory Processing Disorder encompasses three main categories. These are Sensory Modulation Disorder, Sensory Discrimination Disorder, Sensory-Based Motor Disorder and their subtypes. The subtypes are Sensory Over-responsivity, Sensory Under-responsivity, Sensory Seeking, Postural Disorder and Dyspraxia.

You may become aware that your child is experiencing a sensory issue problem if you notice the following symptoms.

-Child likes to crash into walls and furniture.

-Child frequently puts non-food items in mouth. Such as shirt collars, toys, hands and other items.

-Child over stuffs mouth while eating.

-Child is afraid of water, sand, vacuums, loud noise and new experiences.

-Child is a picky eater.