Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), occurs when information from the senses going into the neurological system (senses-nerves-spinal cord-brain), end up getting jumbled up in the processing portion of the loop, and creates a reaction of behaviors or responses that are different from the "norm." To quickly understand the top five symptoms of SPD take a look at the cheat sheet below.
Loosely said, it is either demonstrated as overstimulation of the sensory information coming in, becoming overreactions, tantrums, or extreme discomfort, or as under-stimulation, (hyposensitivity), when one has decreased response to the information coming in, and therefore appears as lazy or clumsy, and non-reactive to the input (e.g. not reacting to pain). One or all senses can be involved, and severity of symptoms is also invariant from one person to another.
SkillsTherapy.com has put together a simple at-a-glance cheat sheet highlighting the top five symptoms of SPD.
The earlier that one can be diagnosed or treated, the better the chances of helping the symptoms. Early intervention allows children to be more successful in school, which allows for increased participation, school success rates, and self-esteem. Michael LeFevre, MA, LPC, a Play Therapist and Therapeutic Parent Coach in Boulder, Colorado expands, "When working with kids with SPD, early intervention is critical. If you wait until a crisis point at school or home, it will take longer and require more resources (financial and emotional) than dealing with the issues when they first arise. Finding a practitioner who offers early intervention options is the best decision you can make for your child and your family's well being."
Older children can still benefit from intervention, but it may take longer to see progress. It is never too late to seek help.
Occupational therapists (OTs) are trained in sensory integration, and work with children and families to create successful programs in the home and classrooms, which increases success rates in school, improves self-esteem, and decreases chances of anxiety and depression.
If you are a parent, talk with a medical professional or therapist that is skilled or trained in dealing with SPD. There are screenings and formal assessments that can be performed by trained professionals, especially occupational therapists, to help to determine your child's needs. Please do not try to work on "curing" symptoms without professional help, as symptoms can be worsened if not dealt with correctly.
About SkillsTherapy:
Bethany McCabe, MS, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist and owner of SkillsTherapy, LLC (http://skillstherapy.com). SkillsTherapy serves children in the Boulder, Colorado area and consults with clients nationwide with Pediatric Occupational Therapy services specializing in the areas of: Handwriting, Fine Motor skills, Developmental Delays, SPD, Activities in Daily Living, Gross Motor Skills, Self-Help Skills, and more. Learn more at: http://www.skillstherapy.com
Bethany McCabe, MS, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist and owner of SkillsTherapy, LLC (http://skillstherapy.com). SkillsTherapy serves children in the Boulder, Colorado area and consults with clients nationwide with Pediatric Occupational Therapy services specializing in the areas of: Handwriting, Fine Motor skills, Developmental Delays, SPD, Activities in Daily Living, Gross Motor Skills, Self-Help Skills, and more. Learn more at: http://www.skillstherapy.com
