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Sensory Under-responsivity

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Summary

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Sensory under-responsivity means a child might not respond to sensory experiences like most other kids. It’s when they don’t notice certain sounds, textures, or movements as much as others do.

Table of Contents

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Frequently Asked Question

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Is sensory under-responsivity the same as sensory over-responsivity?

No, they are different. Sensory over-responsivity involves heightened reactions to sensory input, while sensory under-responsivity relates to reduced responsiveness to sensory stimuli.

Can sensory under-responsivity improve over time?

Yes, with early intervention and appropriate therapies, many children show improvements in their sensory responsiveness and adaptive behaviors.

How can I differentiate between typical picky eating and sensory underresponsivity related to food?

While picky eating is common in many children, sensory underresponsivity related to food might involve extreme aversions to certain textures, smells, or tastes, impacting their ability to eat a balanced diet.

Will my child outgrow sensory underresponsivity on their own?

In some cases, children may show improvements as they grow and develop coping strategies, but individual progress varies. Early intervention and appropriate support can play a crucial role in helping children manage sensory underresponsivity effectively.

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Scientific Definition

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Sensory under-responsivity is a neurodivergent condition that affects how a child processes sensory information. Children with this symptom may have difficulty noticing or responding to sensory stimuli in the environment. For example, they might not react to loud noises, feel uncomfortable with certain textures, or not notice when someone touches them lightly. This doesn’t mean they are not paying attention or being complicated; it’s just that their brain processes sensory input differently. Understanding and recognizing sensory under-responsivity can be essential in providing appropriate support and creating a sensory-friendly environment for these children.

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Treatment to Help with the Symptom Sensory Under-responsivity

When supporting children with sensory under-responsivity, early intervention and appropriate treatment can significantly impact their daily lives. Let’s explore some practical approaches that can help children overcome these challenges and thrive.

  • Occupational Therapy (OT): Consider enrolling your child in therapy sessions. The occupational therapist will work with your child to develop better strategies to manage sensory input and respond appropriately to various stimuli. Children can learn to process sensory information more effectively through playful activities and exercises.
  • Sensory Integration Therapy: This specialized therapy focuses on helping children integrate and process sensory input better. It may involve exposure to various sensory experiences in a structured and supportive environment, gradually helping the child become more comfortable with different sensations.
  • Sensory Diet: Create a sensory diet with a therapist or healthcare professional. This personalized plan will provide your child with specific sensory activities throughout the day to address their unique needs, whether using a sensory swing, playing with textured toys, or engaging in calming sensory activities.
  • Environmental Adaptations: Adjust your child’s environment to minimize sensory challenges. This can include providing a quiet space for them to retreat when overwhelmed, using noise-canceling headphones, or selecting clothing made from comfortable fabrics.
  • Parent Education and Support: As a parent, understanding your child’s sensory needs is essential. Seek educational resources and support groups where you can learn from others facing similar challenges and share experiences.

Children with sensory under-responsivity can significantly progress in managing their sensory challenges with appropriate treatment and support. 

Conditions Associated with Sensory Under-responsivity

Sensory under-responsivity can be associated with various neurodivergent conditions in kids. Here are some conditions associated with sensory underresponsivity:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Many children with ASD experience Sensory Underresponsivity, where they may not respond to sensory input in the same way as typically developing children.
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Some children with ADHD may also exhibit Sensory Underresponsivity, finding it challenging to process and respond to sensory stimuli effectively.
  • Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): This condition relates explicitly to difficulties in processing sensory information, including Sensory Underresponsivity, where a child may not react or respond to sensory input adequately.
  • Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD): Children with DCD may also show signs of Sensory Underresponsivity, affecting their ability to perceive and respond to sensory cues relevant to movement and coordination.

Each child’s experience is unique, and understanding the specific condition can aid parents in providing the best possible care and resources for their child. Goally’s tablet offers fun apps that help kids with sensory under-responsivity build life and language skills, including visual schedules, AAC, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills training.

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