A Parent's Perspective

Have you ever been to the movies and your child has a huge meltdown? It’s a disaster your child, is over-stimulated by the loud sound, dark theatre and bright screen. And you are thinking here we go again… You try to calm your child down, but nothing seems to work. Other movie goers are giving you that look, the one that says, "Do something with that kid." Sometimes, someone even says, "That child could use some discipline." So, you sit out in the lobby and wait while the rest of your family enjoys the movie. That was me. Was I a bad parent? No, my child had sensory processing disorder (SPD).

It became difficult to go anywhere without a meltdown.  Finally, I heard about sensory integration disorder. Through research and practical strategies, we were able to minimize the meltdowns. Over the years, our daughter developed her own strategies to handle the overload. I want to share what we have learned to help others in similar situations.

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder

SPD is a condition where the brain struggles to receive and respond to sensory information. Some children are oversensitive to their environment, where common sounds might be painful, or the light touch of a shirt might chafe their skin. Others may be uncoordinated, bump into things, or have difficulty engaging in conversation or play. SPD can affect one or multiple senses and exists on a spectrum.

Strategies for Parents

Preparation is Key

Before heading to potentially overwhelming places, prepare your child by discussing what to expect. Visual schedules or social stories can help them understand the sequence of events and reduce anxiety. It they are old enough let them know a timeframe of how long you will be at each place.

Bring Comfort Items

Having familiar items, like a favorite toy or blanket, can help soothe your child if they become overwhelmed. These items provide a sense of security in unfamiliar or overstimulating environments.

Allow for Breaks

Identify quiet areas in places like stores or parks where your child can take breaks. A brief respite from sensory input can help them regroup and prevent a meltdown.

Use Sensory-Friendly Products

Noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or fidget toys can help manage sensory inputs. These tools can make overwhelming environments more tolerable for your child.

Create a Routine

Establishing a routine can provide predictability and security. Consistent routines help children with SPD know what to expect, reducing anxiety and sensory overload.

Ideas for School Teachers

Sensory-Friendly Classroom

Create a sensory-friendly environment by providing noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or a quiet corner where students can take breaks. Soft lighting and reduced clutter can also help.

Understanding and Patience

Educate yourself about SPD and the specific needs of your students. Be patient and understanding, recognizing that behaviors are often a response to sensory overload, not intentional disruptions.

Clear Instructions

Provide clear, concise instructions and use visual aids to help children understand and follow along. Visual schedules and cues can assist in maintaining a structured and predictable environment.

Flexible Seating

Offer flexible seating options like wiggle cushions, therapy balls, or standing desks. Allowing students to choose where they feel most comfortable can improve their focus and engagement.

Regular Breaks

Incorporate regular sensory breaks into the day. Activities like stretching, jumping jacks, or a quick walk can help students regulate their sensory input and improve concentration.

Encouraging Stories

Like my daughter, many children with SPD can learn to manage their sensory issues with the right support and strategies. Advocacy and the right resources are crucial. Occupational therapy and sensory integration techniques can make a significant difference. It's essential to work closely with therapists, pediatricians, and teachers to create a supportive environment for your child.

Conclusion

Dealing with sensory processing disorder as a parent can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent. With understanding, patience, and practical strategies, you can help your child navigate their sensory environment successfully. Sharing your journey and educating others about SPD can offer hope and guidance to other parents and ensure that children receive the comprehensive support they need. Your dedication to your child’s well-being is commendable, and together, we can make the world a more understanding and accommodating place for children with sensory processing disorders.