As parents, we start to notice when our child behaves differently than their peers—
Maybe they:
Melt down at noisy birthday parties
Refuse certain foods or clothing textures
Constantly crash into things
Make excessive noise for no clear reason
Hate bright lights
Resist changes in routine
These behaviors can feel confusing or frustrating, but for some children, the stress is very real. Sensory input is being processed in a way that triggers fear, discomfort, or overwhelm. And as parents, that can deeply impact how we respond.
What Is Sensory Integration?
All of us process information from our senses—sight, sound, taste, touch, smell, and movement. When our brains interpret that information accurately, we respond automatically and appropriately.
But sometimes, the brain misinterprets sensory input, which can lead to:
Sensory avoiding (overwhelm)
Sensory seeking (craving more input)
This is where sensory integration challenges come in.
Hypersensitive vs. Hyposensitive
Most of us fall somewhere on a sensory sensitivity spectrum:
If you’re hypersensitive, you may:
Dislike loud noises (vacuum, airplanes)
Avoid scratchy clothes
Feel irritated by bright lights
Struggle with toothbrushing or face washing
Are afraid of heights or fast motion
If you’re hyposensitive, you may:
Love spicy foods and loud events
Enjoy mess and crashing into things
Prefer bright lighting
Constantly stay active or “on the go”
You can also have different sensitivities in different areas—and your child may too.
What Is Sensory Defensiveness?
Sensory defensiveness is when a person reacts strongly to harmless sensations as if they’re threatening or painful.
Example: A tag in a shirt might feel like spiders crawling on the skin.
This is more common in children who are neurodivergent. These biologically based reactions can lead to:
Social or emotional challenges
Rigid routines
Avoidance behaviors that interfere with daily life
What Can Help?
The goal is to help children move toward the middle of the sensory spectrum—where they can experience new sensations without fear or overwhelm. This can naturally happen as children get older. But for children with more sensitive nervous systems, these sensory challenges can easily follow them into adulthood.
If your child has significant sensory issues, an Occupational Therapist (OT) trained in sensory integration can help.
If your child’s symptoms are mild, there are things you can do at home to help:
Activities That Support Sensory Integration
These activities give children opportunities to explore different sensations in a playful, helpful way:
Texture play: Oatmeal soap, shaving cream, sponges, washcloths
Sand or rice bins: Pouring, scooping, hiding toys
Rolling: Down hills, on the floor, somersaults
Swinging: Tire swings, trapeze, traditional swings
Spinning: Sit-n-spin, merry-go-round, tire swings
Tummy time: Coloring or playing while lying on tummy
Heavy lifting: Carrying grocery bags or pulling wagons
Climbing & hanging: Monkey bars, jungle gyms
Pillow crashing: Jumping into soft piles of pillows or cushions
Roughhousing: Play wrestling with mom or dad
Deep pressure: Big hugs, sucking thick drinks through a straw
Caves & forts: Blanket forts, sleeping bags, cozy spaces
Soothing motion: Rocking, swinging, singing
Movement play: Jumping jacks, running, swimming, pushups
Sensory crafts: Play-Doh, clay, gooey substances
What If My Child Avoids Something?
If a child avoids a sensation, that might be the very thing they need more of.
Instead of avoiding it completely, try gradual exposure.
Example:
If your child refuses finger painting, start with kneading cookie dough—something sticky but familiar. Slowly work up to other textures over time.
Final Thought
A lot of these sensory experiences are things kids naturally encounter. But now that we understand why they matter, we can offer them more intentionally.
The next time you ask your child to carry in groceries, you’re not just getting help—you’re helping them grow.
Happy Parenting!
Kathryn
Resources:
Sensory Integration and the Child by A. Jean Ayres, PhD
The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Stock Kranowitz, M.A.
Sense Abilities: Understanding Sensory Integration by Maryann Colby Trott, M.A.
