Key Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder and How to Support Your Child

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information, such as sounds, textures, smells, and visual stimuli. People with SPD may find it difficult to respond appropriately to sensory inputs, which can lead to challenges in everyday activities and interactions. This disorder can vary in severity, but there are several key symptoms that are commonly seen in those who experience it.

1. Uncoordinated Movements

One of the most noticeable symptoms of SPD is difficulty with coordination. Because the brain struggles to process sensory signals, individuals may have trouble performing everyday tasks that require precise movements. For some, this may mean bumping into objects like furniture or walls, while others may experience more significant balance issues that make walking or participating in sports a challenge.

2. Trouble with Communication

People with SPD often face difficulties in communication. They may struggle to understand or respond to simple questions, and holding a conversation can be overwhelming. The brain's misinterpretation of sensory signals, especially sound, can make it hard to focus or process verbal cues, which can lead to frustration and confusion. Social interactions may also feel taxing, and those with SPD may prefer to avoid prolonged periods of socializing to reduce sensory overload.

3. Sensitivity to Touch

Another hallmark of SPD is an intense dislike or aversion to touch. Simple physical contact, such as being hugged or even brushed by someone, can feel unbearable. Many children with SPD may react by becoming upset or even lashing out when touched. In some cases, individuals with the disorder can tolerate touch but only if they are given a warning in advance. This sensitivity extends beyond just physical touch—certain fabrics, textures, or sensations can cause discomfort or distress.

4. Aversion to Strong Flavors or Smells

A severe Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder is a heightened sensitivity to strong tastes or smells. Individuals with SPD may vomit when they eat foods with intense flavors or odors. As a result, they may prefer bland or simple foods that others might find unappealing. Children, in particular, are often labeled as "picky eaters," but this aversion to food could be related to the sensory challenges they face. After tasting a food that’s too strong or overwhelming, some may even refuse to eat for a period of time due to the lingering effects of the sensory overload.

5. Sensitivity to Temperature Changes

Children with SPD may also be highly sensitive to sudden or extreme changes in temperature. This can manifest in strong reactions to activities like taking a bath, moving from a warm indoor environment to a chilly outdoor one, or even eating very hot or cold foods. Such changes can lead to tears, discomfort, or frustration as their brains struggle to process the shifting sensory inputs.

Getting Help for Sensory Processing Disorder

At Speech & Occupational Therapy of Texas, we understand how challenging sensory processing disorder can be for both children and their families. With early intervention and the right therapeutic support, many of the symptoms of SPD can be managed, and children can learn coping strategies to better handle sensory challenges. Our team in Plano is here to assist with diagnosis and provide customized treatment plans tailored to your child's unique needs.

If you suspect that your child may have SPD, we invite you to visit us at our Plano clinic, where we can help you navigate the path to better sensory health.

Storytelling in Speech Therapy: A Pathway to Healing

 Storytelling isn’t just entertainment—it has powerful healing properties, both psychologically and physically. Good stories, when told well, can enhance the therapeutic process, even playing a vital role in speech therapy. Rooted in ancient traditions, storytelling’s hypnotic quality captivates the imagination, making it a valuable tool for speech and communication therapy.

So, how do we use storytelling in modern speech therapy? Here are some creative ways to incorporate stories that engage and inspire clients:

1. Create New Stories with Target Words: Start by listing a few target words, then craft various stories using them. Each version of the story will sound unique, showing how words can shape meaning and narrative.

2. Build an Ongoing Story: Write down target words and practice sentences with them. Start a story by introducing the setting or main character, then have each participant add a sentence using a target word. This collaborative storytelling fosters creativity and keeps everyone engaged.

3. Play WH Question Trivia: After a story, test your audience’s attention with trivia questions. Using WH questions (who, what, where, when, why, how) encourages participants to recall and engage. You can even add a buzzer or small rewards to make it fun.

4. Describe Me with Target Words: After the story, choose target words for each person to describe without directly saying them. The others guess the word, encouraging vocabulary expansion and descriptive language skills.

5. Retell Hopscotch: Create flashcards with target words or images and distribute them. Call out a word, and each person places their card down or hops to it if playing hopscotch. It’s a fun, active way to reinforce language learning.

Contact Us to Learn More

We offer these techniques and more at Speechandot clinics across Texas. Visit us in Plano at 1410 14th Street, or call us at (972) 424-0148. You’ll also find us in Frisco at 3880 Parkwood Blvd, Building 5, Suite 502, and in McKinney at 6200 Virginia Parkway. Reach out to find how storytelling can enhance speech therapy!