Sensory Arousal Levels and Self Regulation
We process a lot of sensory input each day, our senses are constantly being bombarded. This sensory input is processed and regulated, allowing them to function efficiently and adapt to their environment but for those of us who struggle with sensory processing disorder, this can be quite challenging.
Sensory processing dysregulation is when the brain has difficulty processing and integrating information received from the different senses.
This can lead to an over or under-reactive response to sensory input, resulting in a range of behavioral and emotional difficulties.
Children with sensory processing dysregulation may be easily overwhelmed or under-stimulated by sensory input, which can impact their ability to focus, regulate their emotions, and engage in daily tasks.
A very important part of sensory processing is the level of arousal. Arousal refers to the state of being awake and alert, and it can vary depending on the situation and child too. Children who have sensory differences may have difficulties regulating their arousal levels, leading to either hyperarousal (overstimulation) or hypo-arousal (under stimulation). This will impact their ability to take part in activities, social interactions, and learning too.
Sensory activities help individuals with sensory processing dysregulation regulate their arousal levels. These sensory activities are typically divided into two categories: alerting and calming. Alerting activities aim to increase the level of arousal in a person who is under-stimulated, while calming activities aim to decrease arousal levels in an overstimulated individual.
There are also other strategies that can help individuals with sensory processing dysregulation better manage their arousal levels. These strategies involve creating a sensory friendly environment, with a balance of both alerting and calming activities.
It is very beneficial for children to have a calm corner in a classroom that is a calming space or at home that can provide a sensory space to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. It is important to also include sensory breaks for movement throughout the day can help individuals stay alert and engaged.
Another very important part of managing sensory processing dysregulation is self-regulation. Self-regulation involves the ability to monitor and control one's own emotional and behavioral responses, which is very important when dealing with sensory input.
Developing self-regulation skills is a complex process that takes time and practice, and it may require the support of an occupational therapist.
Children who have sensory processing disorder who struggle with dysregulation may also benefit from using sensory toys, tools and strategies to self-regulate. Deep breathing exercises and a sensory diet could also be very beneficial too.
A sensory diet is a personalized set of sensory activities designed to meet an individual's specific sensory needs and help regulate their arousal levels throughout the day. An occupational therapist can work with individuals and their families to develop a sensory diet.
Children and adults who have Sensory Processing differences can cause become dysregulated. It can be difficult for them to learn and participate in daily activities while in a state of high or low arousal.
When children have a high arousal level, they will require sensory diet strategies to lower their arousal level. This will help them to feel calm. If they have low arousal level, they are going to need sensory alerting activities to increase their level of arousal.
Alerting activities can include any form of sensory input that stimulates the senses and increases arousal. Sensory activities such as jumping on a trampoline, listening to upbeat music, or engaging in vigorous exercise are all sensory alerting activities. These activities aim to wake up their senses and increase alertness, allowing individuals to better engage in activities and focus on tasks.
Children who have a low arousal level may seem uninterested or tired. They may have a hard time engaging in tasks and may appear lethargic or not motivated. This can be due to the brain's inability to process sensory information and generate adequate responses, leading to a lack of stimulation and alertness.
An optimal level of arousal is when an individual is in a state of being alert and focused. This is the ideal state for learning, processing information, and engaging in daily activities. Children who have sensory processing disorder may struggle to keep this level of arousal due to sensory processing difficulties. They may become easily overwhelmed by sensory input in their environment, making it challenging to stay in an optimal state of arousal.
Individuals with high arousal levels may appear hyperactive, anxious, or agitated. This is because their brains are overstimulated, leading to a constant state of heightened arousal. They may display behaviors such as fidgeting, restlessness, and impulsivity. Children may have difficulty sitting still or following instructions.
A child's arousal level becomes extremely dysregulated, leading to sensory overload. They may become easily overwhelmed by even the slightest amount of sensory input causing them to shut down or have sensory meltdowns. This can significantly impact their functioning.
One of the most common symptoms of sensory processing disorder is having difficulty regulating arousal levels. This means that individuals may have a hard time maintaining a stable and appropriate level of alertness.
A child may be experiencing too little or too much arousal, leading to difficulties in focusing, processing information, and engaging in activities.
Sensory processing disorder and the levels of arousal have a significant impact in an individual's functioning.
It is very important to understand the impact of sensory processing dysregulation on arousal levels and to use the right strategies and activities to help regulate your child.
Using a combination of sensory activities, creating a sensory friendly environment, and developing self-regulation skills, individuals with sensory processing dysregulation can better manage their sensory input.
When a child who has sensory processing disorder is at a just the right level of arousal, it allows them to take part in activities, learn, and interact with their environment without being overwhelmed or under-stimulated. This can be achieved through a process called sensory integration therapy, which aims to help the individual process sensory information more efficiently.
Sensory integration therapy involves engaging the individual in sensory rich activities that are tailored to their specific sensory needs. A child with low arousal levels may be exposed to activities that provide deep pressure and intense movements to help increase their arousal level. A child with high arousal levels may benefit from activities that provide calming and organizing sensations, such as deep pressure touch or swinging.
Sensory processing disorder alerting activities
- swinging in a sensory swing
- spinning on a sit-n spin
- bouncing on a bouncy yoga ball
- ride in wagon or on a trike
- chewing ice chips
- sucking on frozen popsicles
- drinking ice water
- tag
- bouncing on a bouncy yoga ball
- ride in wagon or on a trike
- chewing ice chips
- sucking on frozen popsicles
- drinking ice water
- tag
- eating a crunchy snack
- running
- skipping
- obstacle course
- cold water play
- cold water play
- exercise
- playing loud musical instruments
- sound and light toys
- playing loud musical instruments
- sound and light toys
Calming activities decrease the level of arousal in an overstimulated individual. These activities can include deep pressure massages, listening to soothing music, or engaging in slow and rhythmic movements. These activities help to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation, allowing individuals to regulate their emotions and behaviors.
Sensory calming activities
- slow swinging on a sensory swing
- vibration from a pillow or a toy
- deep pressure massage
- joint compressions
- snuggling in a sleeping bag
- wearing a weighted vest
- heavy work activities
- having a warm bath
- heavy work activities
- having a warm bath
- listening to calming music
- coloring
- yoga and meditation
- breathing exercises and mindful techniques
- sensory bottles
- wearing sensory compression clothing
- squeezing sensory stress balls
- chewing gum or chewelry - squeezing sensory stress balls
- sucking on candy
- hide-out in a sensory calming quiet area
Here are some more helpful Sensory Processing Disorder Resources
DISCLAIMER: I am not an Occupational Therapist. 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 gives you. These are just ideas and information 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 suggestions and informational purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different needs. Please always consult with a professional.
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