Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support
Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support 

Childhood Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)  

Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful. 

Childhood Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)  

Jeanette Loftus 

little girl holding teddy bear Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Children with PTSD have experienced a traumatic event which can lead to the development of an exaggerated anxious stress response. An example of this is if they have experienced a stressful life event such as a natural disaster or if they have been abused. Children who are most at risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder are children who witnessed a traumatic event and were hurt directly or already have other anxieties prior to the traumatic event.   
A child with post-traumatic stress disorder can re-experience trauma and have nightmare's or think about their past traumatic experiences. 

Children are resilient, the good news is that many children who have experienced a traumatic event will not develop PTSD or they will recover in a small amount of time. 
Children who have post-traumatic stress disorder have experienced a traumatic event or sometimes if they have been abused. 
Children are at risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder if they have witnessed a traumatic event, were hurt directly or already have other anxieties prior to the traumatic event. 
A child with post-traumatic stress disorder can experience trauma over and over and have nightmares about the traumatic event or think about their past traumatic experiences.
child crying with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- becomes upset when thinking about memories
- difficulties sleeping
- ongoing fears
- sadness
- nightmares
- including the trauma in their play
- keep remembering the traumatic event
- irritability and angry outbursts
- being withdrawn
- feeling of numbness
- feeling nervous or jittery
- headaches or stomachaches
- avoiding situations that remind them of the trauma
- often looking for possible threats- easily startled
- reacting when something reminds them of traumatic event
Childhood Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a disorder that affects children who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Children can develop PTSD after going through a frightening or dangerous threatening event, such as abuse or violence. It's estimated that about 5% of children in the United States struggle with PTSD.  
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a type of childhood anxiety disorder that occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. 

Children with post traumatic stress disorder may experience intrusive thoughts, nightmares or some children may experience flashbacks about the traumatic event too. 
A common and effective therapy for children with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is play therapy. A therapist uses toys, games or maybe arts and crafts to help children express their feelings and cope with the traumatic event in a safe environment.
If your child has witnessed or experienced a traumatic event and is showing symptoms of PTSD, it is very important to seek help. Reach out to your doctor with your concerns. 
Greta and the Dark Cloud: A Story About Overcoming Fear and Anxiety for Kids
Amazon

Greta and the Dark Cloud Fear and Anxiety 

 Learn More
Listening to My Body: A guide to helping kids understand the connection between their sensations
Amazon

Listening to My Body Children's Book

 Learn More 
Breathing is My Superpower: Mindfulness Book for Kids to Feel Calm and Peaceful
Amazon

Breathing is My Superpower: Mindfulness 

 Learn More 
Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support 

Sensory Processing Disorder Resources  

Supporting, learning, sharing and growing together.
Sensory Processing Disorder Sensory Triggers For Children
Sensory Processing Slime, Sensory Dough & Putty Play
Sensory Weighted Vests And Weighted Clothing For Children
Sensory Processing Disorder & Wobble Cushion Benefits
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. 
Amazon offers a small commission on products sold through their affiliate links on my website.  Each of your purchases through links on my website for Amazon affiliation links or sponsored links support me but no additional cost to you so thank you. I appreciate it so much!  I am not responsible should you buy anything from any links on this website.