Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support
Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Auditory Processing 

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Auditory Processing 

Jeanette Loftus 

child with sensory processing disorder struggling with auditory processing covering his ears Auditory Processing (sound sensitivities)
Auditory processing and sound sensitivities are two related issues that can greatly impact a child's ability to process sound.

These challenges can be quite complex and often misunderstood leading to difficulties in getting the proper support and help for those who struggle with auditory processing disorder.

Auditory processing is the way in which the brain recognizes and interprets sounds. It is a process that involves not only the ears but also the brain and how it processes the information received from sound.

This is so important for a child's development, communication, language and learning too.

Children who have auditory processing disorder (APD) challenges have difficulty processing and making sense of the sounds they hear, even when their hearing is normal. This can result in difficulty following instructions, understanding speech and distinguishing between different sounds. People with auditory processing disorder may also struggle with noise sensitivities too.

Sound sensitivities known as hyperacusis or misophonia are sensitivities to certain sounds or noises. These sensitivities can be mild or severe and can be often very debilitating. It is estimated that up to 20% of children experience some type of sound sensitivities. 

Different sounds can trigger negative responses for many children like as anxiety, pain or frustration. This can impact a child's life making it difficult to take part in a lot of activities that involve loud noises or loud sounds.

When a child is struggling with auditory processing and sound sensitivities, it is so important for them to have treatment. This would include a comprehensive assessment by a qualified audiologist or speech language pathologist.
There are listening devices that can be used to help individuals with sound sensitivities. These devices include noise cancelling headphones, frequency-modulated (FM) systems, and sound-masking devices. These can help to reduce the impact of loud sounds and noises.
It is so important to create an inclusive environment for children who have auditory processing disorder. This can include noise control measures in public spaces, providing accommodations and educating others about these challenges. Sound sensitivities can be a significant issue that can really impact a child's life.
child with auditory processing Auditory processing disorder symptoms list

Symptoms A child with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) 
1. Has difficulty listening for extended periods of time in school and “zones out”.
2. Does not respond to or has difficulty following verbal instructions.
3. Cannot communicate well in noisy environments.
4. Exhibits sound sensitivity and becomes easily stressed in noisy environments.
5. Has difficulty remembering information received verbally or through the written word.
6. Is over stimulated by or distracted by random noises.
7. Delayed speech.
8. Lack of attention and concentration.
9. Problems following verbal communications and directions.
10. Limited vocabulary.
11. Sound sensitivities.
12. Agitated and easily distracted by noise.
13. Delayed reading skills.
14. Difficulty reading aloud.
15. Specific confusion with consonants and similar sounding words.
16. Difficulty with colors, shapes, numbers, alphabet, etc.
17. Letter and number reversals or transpositions.
18. Difficulty remembering facts.
19. Lack of mental flexibility and ability to learn new skills.
20. Other academic problems.
21. Problems grasping abstract concepts like the concept of time.
22. Slow development of fine motor skills and handwriting.
23. Underdeveloped balance and proprioception.
24. Injury prone.
25. Difficulty communicating their needs.
26. Disassociation and lack of empathy.
27. Frustration with other children.
28. Does not understand body language and facial expressions.
29. Difficulty making friends.
30. Impulsive behavior.

Auditory Processing Tools 
cozyphones Toddler Headphones Wireless Kids Headband Headphones
CozyPhones

Headphones Wireless Kids Headphones

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Look Who's Listening® Auditory Memory Board Game
Amazon

Look Who's Listening® Auditory Board Game 

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Hamilton Buhl HG26B NoiseOff Lightweight Hearing Protection
Amazon 

Hamilton Buhl Noise Off  Hearing Protection

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SOUNDSORY® headphones, a multi-sensory home based program
SOUNDSORY® 

Headphones Multi-Sensory Home Program

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They Think That I Don't Listen Auditory Processing Disorder Book
Amazon 

They Think That I Don't Listen Auditory Book

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FORBRAIN® is a revolutionary brain training headset empowering people with speech, language, and attention challenges.
FORBRAIN® 

Headset for speech, language, and attention

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Blue Toobaloo Auditory Feedback Phone - Accelerate Reading Fluency
Amazon 

Blue Toobaloo Auditory Feedback Phone 

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Amazon 

Snug Kids Noise Cancelling Sound  Earmuffs

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WhisperPhone is a hands-free, acoustical headset that helps children and adults focus and hear the individual sounds
Amazon 

Whisper Phone Acoustical Auditory Headset

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DISCLAIMER: I have learned a lot over the years but I am still learning. Always do your own research and exercise sound judgment. I am not an occupational therapist or a physician. I am an adult who has sensory processing disorder, a sensory parent and a Grandma. The information on this website is not medical advice and does not replace the information that your child's therapists or medical professionals give you. These are just ideas that I have learned myself over the years of being a parent and an adult living with SPD. If you are concerned for your child, please always seek medical attention through a family doctor, pediatrician or therapist. This website is for awareness and support purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different sensory needs. Please always consult with a professional. 
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