Sensory processing is the way we use information from our senses to interact with and learn from our world; the smell of trash should tell you to look somewhere else for food, while the sight of a stop sign should tell you to hit the brakes. But not everyone’s sensory input is organized in a way that allows them to use the information they’re taking in. When a person has sensory processing difficulties, they have trouble responding appropriately to the sensory information they’re receiving. This can lead to a variety of observable behaviors, depending on the impacted senses, such as covering ears at loud (or even slightly loud) noises, or refusing to eat foods that are “squishy” or crunchy.
It’s important to note that variations in sensory preferences are normal– some people like to listen to loud metal music and others prefer soft classical, and neither is wrong or indicative of sensory integration differences. These preferences are what make us individuals. However, for safety, as well as optimal development, children should be able to participate in daily life without struggling to integrate their sensory experiences.
If sensory seeking or avoiding behavior gets in the way of a child being able to form and maintain friendships, follow developmentally typical directions, or engage in their child care environment, it’s worth connecting their family with your state’s early intervention program for an assessment by an occupational therapist.
For Reflection:
Have you cared for children with diagnosed sensory processing difficulties?
What adaptations have you made to support their exploration of the sensory environment?
Do you know how to contact your local early intervention to make a referral, or support families in making a self-referral?
Access this FREE module and quick tips to learn how to adapt routines, activities and environment for children with different abilities in your early childhood program.
You play an important role in ensuring that children in your care receive developmental screenings and that families have access to resources for screenings and support. The screening process can often seem overwhelming, but these resources from ExceleRate Illinois can help you and parents figure it out.
Talking to families about your concerns can be difficult. However, open communication is always best. You may suspect a delay, but after talking to parents you might find there are other underlying reason for what you have observed or you might find parents have the same concerns. This handout from the CDC can be a helpful starting point for a conversation to determine if there is a need for further assessment.
Tips for Talking with Parents about Developmental Concerns
Children grow and develop at different rates and there are many factors that can influence the rate at which developmental milestones are met by each child. A child who has not yet mastered a skill or task that other children of the same age have mastered might be in the process of developing or might be experiencing a delay. If a delay is suspected, working with a pediatrician or specialist may be important in determining if intervention is necessary to support the development of the child. Family childcare providers should consider writing down their observations of each child’s development or using a screening or assessment tool to track development. Observations and assessments can be useful to professionals who determine a delay and plan a course of action.