Sensory Processing Disorder Treatment
in Massapequa & East Northport, NY
Raising children comes with many joys and challenges, but what can you do when everyday activities like getting dressed or trying new foods are overwhelming for your child? If you’ve ever noticed your child reacting strongly to lights, sounds, or textures, or having difficulty participating in typical childhood activities they might be experiencing Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Keep reading to learn more about this condition, how it can impact your child, and how our expert pediatric therapists can help.
What Is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory Integration is a neurological process where sensations from one’s own body and the environment are received, processed and organized to allow the body to respond adaptively to the incoming information. A Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is when these sensations are not received and processed efficiently. There are many patterns of Sensory Processing Disorder.
SPD can lead to challenges with daily activities like getting dressed, going to school, engaging in typical childhood activities or even eating a healthy meal. While SPD is commonly seen in children with autism, it can also occur in children with other conditions such as ADHD or developmental delay.
What Is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory Integration is a neurological process where sensations from one’s own body and the environment are received, processed and organized to allow the body to respond adaptively to the incoming information. A Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is when these sensations are not received and processed efficiently. There are many patterns of Sensory Processing Disorder.
SPD can lead to challenges with daily activities like getting dressed, going to school, engaging in typical childhood activities or even eating a healthy meal. While SPD is commonly seen in children with autism, it can also occur in children with other conditions such as ADHD or developmental delay.
Some Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder in children
- Extreme reactions to light, sound, touch, taste, or smell
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Behavioral challenges such as emotional outbursts or difficulty adapting to change
- Trouble focusing, especially in loud or distracting environments
- Low tolerance for pain, heat, and cold
- Feeling overwhelmed in crowds
- Inability to sit still, often crashing into people or things, impulsivity
- Frequent chewing on clothes, fingers, or objects
- Difficulty recognizing social cues or respecting personal space
- Often plays roughly or seeks out dangerous activities
- High tolerance for pain, heat, and cold
- Trouble focusing or paying attention to a task
- Difficulty transitioning from one activity to another
- Avoids playing on a playground or school yard
- Poor handwriting or difficulty with other academic tasks.
- Appearing lazy, stubborn or refuses to do age appropriate activities
- Difficulty with organizing or sequencing tasks.
- Difficulty following verbal directions.
How Pediatric Therapy Treats Sensory Processing Disorder
We use a comprehensive approach to SPD treatment beginning with a thorough evaluation. Our experienced pediatric therapists develop personalized treatment plans to address your child’s unique needs.
Occupational Therapy for Sensory Processing Disorder
Occupational therapy is designed to give children, teens, and young adults the skills they need to be able to handle daily tasks more easily. Our therapists use specialized exercises and activities to improve motor skills, cognitive skills, and emotional regulation.
Sensory Integration Treatment for Sensory Processing Disorder
Occupational therapy using a Sensory Integration frame of reference is a specialized approach designed to help children process and respond appropriately to sensory stimuli. Our therapists use play-based activities to improve their sensory integration and help them participate in their daily activities.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you suspect that your child is experiencing sensory integration challenges impacting their development and participation, call Sensational Development at (516) 799-2900 to schedule an evaluation today. Together, we can empower your child with the skills they need for a sensational future.
