The preschool years can be a challenging time for parents as children are developing so many new skills. Children want to explore, play and move their bodies all day as they are always learning something new. This is a common age group for tantrums, moodiness and power struggles when it comes to following routines such as meals, dressing and bedtime. So when are these just typical preschooler behaviors and when do we need to be concerned that there is something more going on.
Sensory processing allows us to learn about the world around us and decide how we will respond. The central nervous system is the location in our body for processing all of these sensations. It helps us determine how we will respond. For example, you hear a noise and then your head turns to the direction of the sound. You see the light turn green at an intersection and then you press the gas pedal with your foot. These are all responses to sensory information of sounds and sights.
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Children of preschool age are learning about all of these sensations, however some children can process this information differently and then their response does not coincide with what is happening in the environment. Children with sensory processing difficulties can over respond, under respond or even seek out sensory information. Children who over respond to sensory information may display behaviors such as covering their ears, looking away from visual tasks, and may demonstrate irrational fears or avoidance. Children who are under-responsive to sensory information may appear not to hear what is being said, may not notice food on their face or trip on objects they didn’t notice. Children who display sensory seeking behaviors are often always on the go. No matter how much activity they get, they always seem to want more. They may be observed to crash on the floor, spin around in a circle, make noises with their mouth or want to touch everything they see.
Occupational Therapists are trained to determine whether your child’s behavior is related to difficulties with sensory processing abilities. They can provide individualized treatment interventions as well as home activities to help your child. Sensory processing difficulties can impact your child in a variety of ways including socialization with peers, willingness to climb on playground equipment, be aware of safety, may demonstrate picky eating as well as difficulty participating in self-help tasks such as dressing and grooming.
Call Beacon Pediatric Therapy today for a phone consultation to find out if your child may benefit from an occupational therapy evaluation (609) 200-1118.