Sensory Processing Disorder Tactile Defensiveness

Some people may enjoy a gentle touch or the feeling of different textures but those who struggle with tactile defensiveness may find these sensations overwhelming or maybe painful.

Tactile sensory input is touch to the skin. Tactile defensiveness is the type of sensory dysfunction.
There are many daily activities that can cause a child to become tactile defensive such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, cutting nails, washing themselves or brushing their hair.

When your child tells you that something that is touching them hurts or is uncomfortable, they are being truthful. They are having a negative response to the tactile sensory input. Brushing  and joint compressions can be very helpful for tactile defensiveness. 

Sensory differences like tactile defensiveness can affect people of all ages. Some children may feel discomfort or pain when touched by another child but some other children may have an aversion to specific textures or fabrics. Hypersensitivity to touch can have a significant impact child's life and cause a child to struggle with self-regulation and their emotional regulation.

It is important to know the symptoms and understand tactile defensiveness. Some common symptoms of sensory tactile defensiveness are avoiding certain textures, fabrics or clothing.

50 Tactile Sensory Activities

There are several sensory strategies that can be helpful for a child who is struggling with hypersensitivity to touch. A sensory diet that includes sensory tactile activities throughout the day will desensitize their sensory tactile sensitivities.

It is recommended that children who are struggling with tactile defensiveness go to Occupational therapy. An occupational therapist who specializes in in sensory integration can work with you and your child to develop a sensory diet. This could include sensory activities like brushing the skin with a specialized brush or using specific sensory tools to desensitize the individual to different textures gradually.

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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