Signs Your Child May Have Sensory Processing or Integration Needs
Every child experiences the world through their senses — touch, sound, sight, taste, smell, movement (vestibular), and body awareness (proprioception). For some children, sensory input can feel extra loud, extra uncomfortable, not noticeable enough, or simply hard to organize. When that happens, everyday routines can feel overwhelming — for them and for you.
It’s important to say this clearly: sensory differences are not “bad behavior.” They reflect differences in how a child’s nervous system processes information. When we understand those differences, we can respond with support instead of frustration.
Here are some signs your child may have sensory processing or integration needs:
Sensitivity to Sounds, Textures, or Everyday Experiences
- Covers ears with common noises like vacuums, toilets flushing, or crowded rooms
- Strong reactions to clothing textures, tags, seams, socks, or shoes
- Distress during grooming tasks like hair brushing or nail trimming
- Limited food variety due to texture preferences
Seeking Movement or Deep Pressure
- Constant jumping, crashing, spinning, or climbing
- Loves tight hugs, squeezing into small spaces, or heavy blankets
- Has difficulty sitting still, especially during structured tasks
- Seems to focus better after active play
Avoiding Certain Sensory Experiences
- Hesitant with swings, climbing structures, or uneven ground
- Overwhelmed in busy, noisy, or visually cluttered environments
- Strong preference for predictability and routine
Coordination and Body Awareness Differences
- Frequently bumps into people or objects
- Uses too much or too little force when playing
- Finds fine motor tasks like buttons, handwriting, or utensils challenging
Big Emotional Responses
- Meltdowns that seem sudden or disproportionate
- Increased irritability after school or social outings
- Difficulty with transitions, especially in stimulating settings
All children have sensory preferences. What we look for is whether these patterns are frequent, intense, and impacting daily life — getting dressed, eating, sleeping, learning, or participating in family routines.
When Should You Consider an OT Evaluation?
You might consider an occupational therapy evaluation if sensory differences are consistently interfering with your child’s participation at home, school, or in the community. If daily routines feel like constant battles, your child seems overwhelmed more often than not, or you’re unsure how to support them, an evaluation can provide clarity.
A neurodiversity-affirming OT approach doesn’t focus on changing who your child is. Instead, it helps you understand their unique sensory profile and identify supports, accommodations, and strategies that work with their nervous system — not against it.
When children feel understood and supported, their confidence grows. And that can make a meaningful difference for the whole family.
Bloom True Therapy 