Sensory processing disorder (SPD) refers to a condition wherein the sensory signals do not work properly to deliver the appropriate responses. It prevents a portion of the brain from receiving the needed information to correctly interpret the sensory information. Children who are suffering from this condition can have difficulty performing various tasks since they find it hard to process the information they received. This condition can greatly affect the learning ability of school-age children.
Most of the children with SPD also experience problems in their motor skills. Sensory processing disorder also increases the risk of children from developing various educational, emotional, and social disorders. It makes it hard for them to meet other people and make friends. Children with this condition can also suffer from depression, anxiety, and aggression. Aside from that, these children can also become uncooperative, disruptive, and clumsy.
Fortunately, most cases of sensory processing disorder can be treated at home with the help of caregivers and parents. The first thing that parents can do is to focus on the individuals needs of their children. These needs vary from children to children. It is important that parents learn to determine the things that make their children feel secure and love. It would also help if they give them the opportunity to do the things that they love.
Another thing that parents can do is to develop exercises, tools, and activities that can help children learn some of the basic things. It would be better if parents use the exercises that their doctors suggested. Activities such as swinging and playing are known to help children become more focused.
In times of distress, parents should remain calm. It is advisable that they remove the things that make their children feel distress. If the cause of the distress is the surrounding, it would help if they bring their children in a place where they can relax. It is also important that parents learn to identify other factors that affect their children.
When the child is already going to school, parents should make sure that they talk to their child’s teachers to let them know about the child’s condition. It would be great if they also talk to the school’s principal and guidance counselor. When needed, parents can bring a copy of the child’s diagnosis and treatment plan to help teachers understand the things that might affect or help children in the classroom.
It would also help if parents made it clear to their child’s teachers that his condition is not an excuse as to why they should not be disciplined. However, parents should also explain to the teachers that misbehavior or disruptions of children can be caused by sensory issues.
Children with sensory processing disorder need the love and support of their parents to help them manage the condition. Parents should make sure that they provide their children the treatment they need. It is also important that they engage their children to various activities that match their sensory processing needs. With the right treatment and activities as well as with the support from parent, children can effectively deal with their sensory processing disorder.
