Tips for Parents Navigating Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory Processing Disorder is a condition where the brain has trouble collecting and reacting to information coming from the senses. Children with sensory processing disorder have sensitivity to different sensory inputs and have a difficulty regulating their senses. Sensory sensitivity can be overwhelming to parents, especially if it is a new diagnosis. The tips below can help parents as they navigate through life parenting a child with SPD.

 

Everyone has some level of sensory sensitivity to something. Maybe it’s the texture of a certain food. Or, perhaps it is the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard. It may be the sight of blood or the feel of a certain substance on the hands or feet. The difference is that people without SPD can usually manage their sensory issues, while people with SPD do not know how to process them and they tend to get overwhelmed. Embracing your own sensory issues, helps to understand what an SPD child is feeling or going through.

 

Once you’ve identified your child’s sensory needs, make time each day to fulfill them. Whatever it is, ensuring your child gets this input each day will help them to be more balanced. Perhaps it’s swinging at the park or having some quiet time to his or herself. Maybe it’s eating certain foods, listening to certain sounds, or wearing certain clothes. Wearing a Compresso-T may be a great addition to your child’s sensory diet. A Compresso-T can help them to regulate their sensory system and feel more at ease and in control.

 

SPD kids are extraordinary individuals who just happen to struggle with certain aspects of everyday life. When things become frustrating for you and your child, focusing on his or her strengths will help get through the frustration.

 

You know your children better than anyone. If something just doesn’t feel right, trust that feeling. Don’t let family members or other parents sway you away from your intuition. You are the best advocate for your child.

 

Connect with your child by doing the things that they do. If he loves to spin, spin with him. If she enjoys a cold popsicle, have one with her. Take a moment to let loose, be silly and have fun.

 

A good road trip is the best analogy to describe parenting, because overall it is a journey, especially with a sensory kid. Sometimes the road is smooth and other times it’s bumpy. And sometimes you need to pull over at the rest stop. You might need to take a detour or return home and start again. Ultimately, the destination is worth the journey – a happy, well-adjusted kid!