Sensory Help Now

As more people talk about sensory processing or sensory integration, I have realised that there are myths surrounding this topic. In this month’s Sensory Snapshot, I will share some of the main myths that I have come across.

The first myth is the concept that everyone who has sensory processing differences or difficulties are over-sensitive to all sensory input. Over-sensitivity to sound or tactile input are some of the most well known examples of sensory processing differences. Many venues offer ear defenders and sensory-friendly shopping hours to accommodate individuals who prefer quieter spaces and become overwhelmed by loud noises. Similarly, there has been an increase in retailers who sell ‘sensory-friendly’ or ‘autism-friendly’ attire including seam free socks to accommodate individuals who are over-responsive to touch or tactile input. Whilst these accommodations are commendable, it can come across to those unfamiliar with sensory differences that these are the only difficulties that an individual with sensory needs might experience.

The reality is that sensory processing differences can occur in other senses too such as vestibular, visual, olfactory, gustatory and interoceptive and it is possible to be over-responsive to sensory input from one domain or sense and be under-responsive to sensory input from another domain. Not many people realise this but under-responsiveness to sensory input can also be debilitating. For example, individuals who are under-responsive to sensory input may take a while to register input; appear slow to react and respond to information in their environment; can appear clumsy; and may bump into objects.

Another sensory myth is that sensory processing differences are limited to modulation of sensory input (i.e. over or under-responsiveness). In fact, many individuals with sensory processing differences present with praxis or motor difficulties commonly known as dyspraxia. This impacts motor coordination and other life skills such as planning and organisation.

Finally, just because a sensory strategy targets a specific sensory domain, it does not mean that that activity or strategy is useful or relevant for all individuals with sensory processing differences. For example, when it comes to exercise, individuals will prefer different activities. So just as some people prefer running to cycling or swimming to stay fit, individuals will react differently to how helpful they find specific sensory strategies.

For example, heavy muscle work activities that provide proprioceptive input can be calming and organising. One person might prefer to get this input through a weight-bearing activity like yoga whilst another person might prefer to do something more active like rock climbing. Similarly, a child seeking vestibular movement input might enjoy going down slides, whilst another child might dislike this and prefer swinging instead.

As with anything in life, it’s good to try out a few different activities targeting the sensory system that you want to address until you find something that works and is enjoyable for the individual.

If you have any questions about how sensory processing differences impact your child at home, please check out our free Sensory Help Now Forum. If your child’s sensory processing differences are impacting them at school, please tell your child’s school to check out the Sensory Inclusive Schools website.

Best wishes

Lelanie

PS You may also be interested in our blog ‘Learn More About How Sensory Processing Impacts Your Child’ which takes a closer look at the practical aspects of sensory processing—what it entails, how it impacts daily functioning and its implications for your child's health and well-being – as well as figuring out whether certain behaviours are connected to your child's sensory needs and the impact these can have on their everyday activities.

Sensory Snapshot is a regular series by Advanced SI Practitioner and OT Lelanie Brewer. Lelanie gained her MSc in OT at Brunel University, London, and is pursuing a PhD with Newcastle University. Experienced in the NHS, charity and private sectors, as well as being a UK university senior lecturer, Lelanie is the Lead for Continuous Professional Development at Sensory Integration Education.