Interoception & Sensory Processing Internal Sensations

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

Interoception & Sensory Processing Internal Sensations

Jeanette Loftus

Interoception is the human sense for our internal bodily signals such as feeling hungry, thirsty, feeling to go to the bathroom, feeling your heartbeat, temperature changes and emotions. Interoception is referred to as our "8th sense," of the more commonly known five senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell) and vestibular and proprioceptive senses. Children with interoceptive differences may experience hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity which can have a significant impact on their daily lives and emotional regulation.

Children who are hypo-sensitive to interoceptive sensory input have a reduced ability to perceive interoceptive sensory signals. They may struggle to recognize when they are hungry, thirsty, tired or in need the bathroom. They may also find it challenging to identify and regulate their emotions which can lead to emotional outbursts and sensory meltdowns.

There are many different ways to support children who have interoceptive sensory differences. Understanding if a child is an interoception seeker or avoider is very important to know which sensory strategies can help them. Your child's occupational therapist will have great ideas and can include sensory diet activities to help your child with their interoceptive sensory needs.

Interoception involves awareness of cues for hunger, thirst, fatigue, pain, temperature and toileting. For many children with sensory differences the ability to process these internal signals can be disrupted, leading to difficulties in self-regulation.

Deep breathing exercises can help children be more aware of their heartbeat. This can also help reduce anxiety, help them stay regulated and feel calm. Yoga can help them develop interoceptive awareness by encouraging mindfulness, body awareness and deep breathing. Mindfulness activities such as body scans and breathing activities can help children become more aware of their physical and emotional states.

Sensory tools such as fidgets and sensory bottles can help children regulate their arousal levels and reduce their anxiety. There are different interoceptive games such as The Belly Breathing Game, this game can help children develop interoceptive awareness and emotional regulation. Educational tools such as daily affirmations, books, videos and worksheets can help children learn about the interoception sense and develop interoceptive skills.

Interoception plays a very important role in a child's functioning each day. When you understand interoceptive differences and support interoceptive development using different sensory activities and tools, we can help children feel happier and regulated. Occupational therapists and other professionals can provide guidance and support in developing strategies for your child.