Sensory Processing Differences
Every child processes the world through their senses. But for some children, the way their nervous system receives, organises, and responds to sensory information is significantly different from their peers, and that difference can make everyday life genuinely difficult. It might show up as a child who cannot tolerate certain textures of food or fabric. A child who covers their ears at sounds other people barely notice. A child who crashes, jumps, and seeks intense physical contact constantly. Or a child who seems oddly unaware of where their body is in space.
Sensory Processing Differences (SPD) are not a behavioural choice, a parenting problem, or something children will simply grow out of. They reflect the way a child’s nervous system is wired, and they often have a significant impact on a child’s daily life, relationships, and capacity to learn.
Sensory Profiles
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Sensory hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness): intense reactions to sensory input that others find unremarkable: fabrics, food textures, noise, light, touch, or movement.
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Sensory hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness): appearing not to notice sensory input, high pain threshold, difficulty knowing where the body is in space.
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Sensory seeking - a strong drive for intense sensory input: jumping, crashing, spinning, chewing, squeezing.
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Sensory discrimination difficulties: difficulty distinguishing between similar sensory inputs, affecting fine motor skills, body awareness, and safety.
How Sensory Integration Therapy Helps
Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI®) therapy is the evidence-based intervention of choice for children with significant Sensory Processing Differences. It works by presenting the child with precisely graded sensory challenges within a therapeutic environment, helping the nervous system to develop more efficient and effective ways of processing sensory information. The goal is not to eliminate sensory sensitivity but to build a more flexible, regulated nervous system that can adapt to the demands of daily life.
Strategies at Home & at School
Alongside direct therapy, we work with families and schools to implement practical sensory strategies in everyday environments. These might include a ‘sensory diet’ of activities scheduled throughout the day, environmental modifications to reduce sensory triggers, and coaching for parents and teachers on how to support a child with sensory needs without inadvertently reinforcing avoidance.