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How to nurture your child's mental health
Sensory processing challenges in kids are common. They can greatly affect how kids take in and respond to the world around them.
Strong reactions to sensory input may show up when a child gets dressed, heads off to school or has to walk through a crowded store.
“It’s not that your child is trying to be difficult when they aren’t able to tolerate a bright, noisy place or itchy clothing,” says Corin Weinstein, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist at Children's Health℠ and Clinical Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern. “It’s often that their nervous system is overwhelmed or they do not know how to process that sensation.”
Dr. Weinstein shares insight into sensory sensitivities – and small steps parents and caregivers can take to support a child who has them.
Common sensory triggers
Children with sensory challenges or a sensory processing disorder may react strongly to certain:
Sights, including bright lights
Sounds, including loud noises like a blender or vacuum or the loud noises of a crowded place
Textures, including clothing like denim or specific food textures
“These sensations can feel overwhelming, and kids often respond by trying to avoid them. They may cover their ears, want to find a quiet room or move away from a stimulus as quickly as possible,” says Dr. Weinstein.
Related podcast
Learn more about how to support kids with sensory challenges by listening to this episode of Children’s Health Checkup podcast.
What causes sensory processing challenges or sensitivities?
There’s no simple answer for what causes sensory sensitivities.
They’re sometimes linked to developmental conditions, including autism spectrum disorder. But they can also occur on their own, with no clear root cause.
The one thing we know for sure is that these sensory sensitivities are real, which is why some kids are diagnosed with sensory processing disorder. And they can significantly affect a child’s comfort and behavior.
Dr. Corin Weinstein, Ph.D.
Creating a supportive environment at home
If your child has sensory challenges, you can help them feel safe and supported by paying attention to what makes them feel distressed or overstimulated.
For example, if your child is overwhelmed by:
Bright overhead lighting, try using lamps or softer lights in their room.
Noise, designate a quiet space in your home so they have somewhere to go to get away from household noise.
Strong smells, avoid using candles, perfumes, air fresheners or strong detergents. There are also some creams or balms that can be used under the nose to help block other smells out.
Clothing tags, seams, textures or tight-fitting clothing, try buying soft, loose clothing – and cutting out bothersome tags. Layering preferred materials under jackets or coats may be helpful during colder months.
Textures of foods in their mouth, try to celebrate small wins when they try something unknown or uncomfortable. Sometimes touching or smelling a new food item is the first step towards trying it!
Strategies for when you’re away from home
When you’re out in public spaces, preparation is key.
“When you’re prepared, you can reduce the chances of your child experiencing sensory overload or having a meltdown,” says Dr. Weinstein.
Try packing a backpack with:
Headphones, if you may be in a loud environment.
Sunglasses, if you may be in a bright environment.
Calming items, like fidget toys, stuffies or textured balls.
Snacks that you know they’re comfortable eating.
Even with preparation, sensory overload can still occur.
The first step, when possible, is to remove or reduce the sensory trigger. So, for example, if your child is bothered by being in a crowded store, you may need to leave that crowded store or provide headphones for them to reset or feel better.
“But if removing the trigger is not an option – like, for example, if you’re on a crowded bus – learned coping skills like deep breathing or gentle redirection can help,” says Dr. Weinstein.
Additional support for kids with sensory processing challenges
Sensory sensitivities and sensory processing disorder can have different causes and triggers. And sometimes, kids’ sensitivities change over time.
A few different types of trained healthcare professionals can help support a child’s sensitivities, including:
These professionals may use:
Sensory processing disorder (SPD) therapy, such as Sensory Integration™, to help your child’s brain better make sense of the information it receives from their senses.
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) or behavioral therapy to help support kids who have autism or kids who need more support with social, emotional, behavioral and communication challenges.
Other more specific therapies, including feeding therapy for kids who are highly selective about their foods or are diagnosed with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
Often, it’s best to also start by talking to your child’s pediatrician about a child’s sensitivities.
“Parents know their child best,” Dr. Weinstein says. “Whenever caregivers notice patterns or concerns, bringing those up with a child’s pediatrician is essential. Pediatricians can help identify resources, make referrals and guide next steps.”
Find the right care for your child
If your child is experiencing sensory challenges, support is available at every step. Children's Health Primary Care providers can help identify concerns early and connect you to the right specialists. The Center for Autism Care offers comprehensive, interdisciplinary care for children with autism and related neurodevelopmental differences.
For additional support, our Pediatric Psychiatry and Psychology services provide tailored social and emotional care to help kids and teens thrive.
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