Masking & Sensory Processing Disorder

Masking is a child's effort to suppress their sensory processing disorder in social situations and around their peers.  Children may miss out on developing really good genuine friendships and expressing their true authentic selves.  Children who have ADHD or are autism also mask or camouflage their symptoms to fit in amongst neurotypicals. 

You may notice them ignoring loud noises, bright lights or things that would normally make them uncomfortable. 

They may be overcompensating and exaggerating social behaviors or suppressing their emotional responses.
They could also be exerting extreme effort and constantly monitoring or managing their sensory input.
A child with sensory processing disorder may avoid situations and refuse to go to crowded places or participate in different activities.

They may try to suppress their reactions to the sensory input around them in their environment which can lead to exhaustion and frustration.

This could include stimming such as rocking or twirling or jumping and spinning. Children may appear to be quiet or fidget. 

There can be a lot of negative affects for a child when they are masking, it does come at a cost and can affect a child in many different ways.

When a child is constantly masking sensory overload it can lead to emotional distress, anxiety and can cause them to feel depressed.

Struggling with different social situations while masking.

Constant effort to mask can be physically draining.

Masking can affect a child's focus, attention and learning and this can lead to struggling at school.

Unmet sensory needs throughout each day can cause a child to have challenging behaviors like aggression and meltdowns.

Difficulty with emotional dysregulation, controlling emotions, leading to outbursts or shutdowns.

They may avoid situations where masking is required and this could lead to social isolation.

It’s very important to know the signs of masking. You may notice that your child has unexplained changes in their behavior, noticing their moods changes, they may have increased anxiety or they are socially withdrawn. 

You could also notice that your child is having difficulties with transitions throughout their day. They may be struggling to adjust to new environments or changes in their daily routine.

If you believe that your child may be showing signs that they are masking, speak to your child's therapist or a qualified professional. They can assess and provide help with how to support them.

It is very important for parents and teachers to create an inclusive environment for all children that supports their sensory differences. There are many different ways to create an inclusive environment.

Educate others as much as you can about sensory processing disorder. 

Provide sensory accommodations and create quiet spaces to minimize your child's sensory overload.

Encourage your child to communicate their sensory needs and find ways to manage their sensory processing disorder.

Acknowledge and appreciate how unique your child is and celebrate their differences.

How to support a child who is masking while they are at school

Educate teachers and explain sensory processing disorder and how masking impacts your child and other children.

Create a sensory-friendly environment and minimize sensory overload by using calming colors, dimming lights and providing quiet spaces for children who struggle with sensory processing.

Offer children the time to take sensory breaks throughout the day in designated sensory space for self-regulation.

Recognize that masking can lead to fatigue and emotional outbursts. Please always be patient and understanding.

How to support a child who is masking while they are at home

Have open communication and listen to your child's concerns and validate their feeling when they tell you how they are struggling.

Use sensory tools and strategies to help your child manage sensory processing disorder. Help them learn new coping skills.

Create a sensory friendly home by minimizing their sensory triggers and provide a sensory calming space for your child.

Work with your child's therapists and educators to develop personalized sensory strategies for your child.

How to support a child who is masking while they are in their community

Raise awareness and educate your community about sensory processing disorder and the challenges children have when masking.

Organize inclusive sensory-friendly events for children in your community. Create sensory spaces and activities for all children.

Provide accessible resources for children in your community. Offer information about sensory processing disorder, support groups and therapy options.

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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