Sensory Processing Problems

What are our senses?

We can all recognise our five basic senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch.

Did you know that these are just our external senses? We also have receptors that detect movement, position and posture. This information comes from our inner ears (vestibular system) and the joints and muscles (proprioception).

Additionally, we collect information from our body organs in a process called interoception. For example, sensing how full our bladder is in order to not overfill.

Sensory Modulation Disorder (SMD)

Experiencing either decreased or increased responses to stimulation or seeking out sensory input.

Example of SMD:

• A child might get agitated when going to the supermarket with the bright, flickering lights or become upset by the noise of a busy gathering.

• Sensory seeking includes biting non-food objects, thumb sucking, spinning, always touching and feeling, uses loud voice, enjoys busy & loud environments

Sensory Discrimination Disorder (SDD)

Difficulties interpreting messages from the senses.

Example of SDD:

• A child who has poor appreciation of distance and timing resulting in difficulties catching and throwing a ball.

• A child with difficulties distinguishing between similar sounds such as cap and cat.

Sensory-Based Motor Disorder (SBMD)

Problems with stabilising, planning and sequencing movements in response to the input from their body’s joints, muscles and inner ears.

Examples of SBMD:

• A child who has difficulties running, jumping and drawing compared to kids of their age

• A child having difficulties with tasks involving multiple steps. Brushing your teeth involves opening the toothpaste and putting it on the brush before even starting the brushing action.

Sensory processing difficulties can present in isolation or accompanied by other labels such as learning difficulties, anxiety, bed wetting, ADHD, ASD and other neuro-developmental disorders.

What does it mean for your child?

You know your child best. If something doesn’t feel right, follow it up. Sensory processing difficulties are not well recognised by many health practitioners. Some health practitioners have experience working with these kids and adults, whilst others may be completely unaware. As always, listen to your gut instinct and get an assessment from a practitioner you know and trust or who is recommended to you.