Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support
Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Sensory Processing Disorder Sensory Triggers For Children

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

Sensory Processing Sensory Triggers For Children

Jeanette Loftus 

two children brushing their teeth Sensory Processing Sensory Triggers For Children
Children who live with sensory processing disorder struggle to process the sensory input in their environments like sounds, smells and tastes.

This can cause a lot of difficulties for them such as emotional regulation and academic challenges.

Sensory triggers are certain sensory input that can cause an overreaction or under-reaction for a child who has sensory differences.

These sensory triggers can be very different from one child to the next as we all have different sensory needs and no two children are the same.

Sensory auditory triggers can be a sensitivity to loud noises like fire alarms, sirens or the sound of a vacuum. These loud noises can be very overwhelming for a child who has sensory processing disorder.

Sensory visual triggers can be a sensitivity to bright lights or flashing lights too. A visually busy environment can cause a child who has sensory processing disorder to be anxious and overstimulated.

Sensory tactile triggers could be a sensitivity to different textures like clothing tags, clothing seams or feeling textures such as play dough or slime. They could be sensitive to temperature changes too.

Sensory olfactory triggers could be a sensitivity to strong smells like perfumes, cleaning products and different foods. These smells in their environment can be too overstimulating for child who struggles with sensory processing disorder.

Sensory gustatory triggers can be a strong aversion to different tastes or textures of food. This can make mealtime challenging for both children and their parents too.

It is so important as a parent to learn what your child's sensory triggers are and learn ways to help your child manage and cope with their sensory triggers. 

Creating a sensory friendly environment for your child can help mini mise your child's sensory triggers. Building a comfortable space for your child in your home can be very beneficial. Depending on your child's sensory needs this could be dimmed lights, calming colors or reducing the noise level in your home. 

You want to have sensory tools and toys available for your child to fill their sensory diet each day, throughout the day. This will provide them with the sensory input they need to stay regulated.
Different children with sensory triggers brushing teeth bathing cutting nails Sensory Processing Sensory Triggers For Children
Have sensory activities available for your child that provides them with the sensory input they need like swinging, jumping or playing with sensory toys. 
Establishing a predictable routine will help your child who has sensory processing disorder  feel more secure and in control. Creating a visual picture schedule could be beneficial for your child with transitions between different activities so they always know what to expect is next and what is happening in their day. 

Have an open discussion with your child about their sensory triggers and help them learn new coping skills that work for them.  Encourage your child to talk about their feelings, sensory needs and find sensory solutions that work for them. 

Schedule an appointment with a pediatric occupational therapist who specialized in sensory processing to help you set up a sensory diet for your child that is just for your child's sensory needs. An occupational therapist will make recommendations and interventions to help your child cope with their sensory processing disorder and their sensory triggers. 
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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. 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!