Children with sensory processing delays struggle to process incoming, sensory experiences. People with SPD misinterpret everyday sensory information, such as touch, sound, and movement. They may feel bombarded by information, they may crave intense sensory experiences, or they may be unaware of sensations that others feel. They may also have sensory-motor symptoms such as a weak body, clumsiness or awkwardness or delayed motor skills.
If a person has SPD, often the symptoms result in emotional, behavioral, social, attention, or motor problems. These secondary problems can take many forms and look different depending on the child and family context.
Signs of sensory processing disorder
clumsiness, poor coordination
poor postural control
decreased tolerance to light touch
aversions to clothing tags and seams
inability to tolerate rough textures in clothing
covers ears at ordinary noises
picky eater based on taste, smell, or texture
displays distress in bright or busy visual environments
