NOTE TO PARENTS!

Sensory processing disorder may explain some of the behaviours that can occur by your child.

For some young people, ambient noises, visual stimuli, certain smells, etc., will capture their attention more and distract them from their task. Although their senses function properly, their central nervous system (brain) does not properly process the sensory information received. Some will be perceived more intensely than they actually are and others will go unnoticed. Some children may feel assaulted and irritated by stimuli (hypersensitivity) and will try to avoid them. Other children may not notice stimuli that are perceived by the majority of people (hyposensitivity) and will be constantly looking for new sensations since they perceive them less.

Here are some difficulties that may be related to this disorder:

• Very strong reaction (hyperreactivity) / or insufficient (hypo-reactivity) to stimuli (noises, odors, lights)
• Expresses excessive discomfort due to labels on clothes / or frequently bring his clothes or fingers to his mouth
• Avoid touching certain textures, does not like to have dirty hands / or touches everything
• Discomfort in the heights (elevators, games module, etc.,)
• Difficulty maintaining attention to the task
• Refusal of food due to taste, texture or smell

If you suspect the presence of a sensory processing disorder in your child, it is important to conduct an assessment that requires the expertise of a trained occupational therapist to confirm it’s presence.  Following his exhaustive evaluation, the occupational therapist will be able to suggest activities adapted to the needs of your child in order to promote his optimal sensory development and ways to adapt his environment to allow his optimal functioning.

To learn more about this disorder or to make an appointment for an assessment, contact us!