Tics & Sensory Processing Disorder 

Always talk to your doctor right away if you are concerned that your child may be experiencing tics. Tics are sudden repetitive movements or sounds that are difficult to control. They can be temporary or chronic and are often classified as motor or vocal tics. 

Motor tics involve movements such as eye blinking, shrugging, or facial grimacing, while vocal tics involve sounds such as throat clearing, sniffing, or grunting. Tics can range from mild and barely noticeable to severe and disruptive.

There are different types of tics that children may experience.  Some common tics include eye blinking, throat clearing and sniffing. These tics can vary in frequency and intensity and may also change over time.

A child may have frequent bouts of eye blinking one day, and then throat clearing the next. These tics can also be triggered by sensory input such as loud noises or bright lights. 

Tics can also be a way for children to cope with the overwhelming sensory input they experience. Children with sensory processing disorder may use tics as a way to release tension and regulate their sensory system. This is why tics are often more frequent in situations where a child is overstimulated or overwhelmed.

It is important to educate those around the child about tics and sensory differences. This can help reduce any misunderstanding or judgment towards the child and create a supportive and understanding environment. It is very important to remember that tics are involuntary and not something a child can control.

Vocal tics: throat clearing, barking, sniffing, belching, coughing, hiccupping, yelling, coughing, making unusual sounds such as hissing, clicking teeth, animal sounds, repeating words or sentences, changing the pronunciation of words or tones of voice over and over, talking to oneself, cursing. 

Motor tics: blinking, kicking, arms flailing, head jerking, shoulder shrugging, tongue thrusting, jerking any part of the body, banging on a table, nose twitching, flapping arms, grimacing, kissing, poking or pinching, shaking feet, jumping, adjusting clothing, gesturing with hands. 

These are just some tics, not all tics are listed here. Please see a medical professional right away if you are concerned about your child having tics. 

Resources For Parents 

CHADD  ADHD and Tics or Tourette Syndrome - CHADD

Cleveland Clinic  Tics and Tic Disorders: What They Are, Causes & Types

Silver Swing ABA   Stimming Vs Tics: What’s the Difference? | Silver Swing ABA

Tourette Association Of America   Processing Disorder/Sensory Issues - Tourette Association of America

Boston Children's Hospital   Tics and Tourette Syndrome | Boston Children's Hospital

Psych Central  What Are Autistic Tics? | Psych Central

Texas Children's  Tics and Kids: When Should I Seek Care? | Texas Children's

Child Mind Institute  What Are Tics and Tourette's? - Child Mind Institute

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 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 medical professional. Click on links throughout each page for more resources and information. Click here for more resources https://sensoryprocessingdisorderparentsupport.com/sensoryprocessingdisorderresources

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