Sensory Processing

Sensory processing refers to how the brain receives and responds to sensory input from the world around us. For young neurodivergent children sensory experiences can feel different, and understanding these responses helps us create supportive environments.

Below is a short video explaining:

• What sensory processing is
• The 8 senses
• Different thresholds of response to sensory experiences

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How Sensory Processing Impacts the Stress Response

Why Do Neurodivergent Children Respond Differently to Sensory Input?

Children receive sensory information through receptors all over their bodies, which is then sent to the brain. Neurodivergent children may process this information uniquely, resulting in responses that reflect their individual sensory strengths and needs. These responses are not “wrong” but are how the child’s brain interprets and adapts to the sensory input around them.

Types of Sensory Responses

• Very Responsive or having a low threshold for sensory input.
  Some children are highly attuned to sensory input. They have a low threshold for sensory input; meaning a little sensory input is enough. For example, they may notice subtle changes in their environment, like a faint noise or smell or a slight change in lighting, which can sometimes feel intense for them. This heightened awareness can be a strength in activities that require attention to detail or precision. But it can also cause intense stress for the young person and avoidance or withdrawal from activities and environments.
• Not Very Responsive or having a high threshold for sensory input.
  Other children may not notice sensory input as readily and need more stimulation to engage. They have a high threshold for sensory input; meaning they like or need a lot of sensory input to feel energised. For instance, they may not immediately react to background sounds or touch, but once they do, they can be fully immersed in the experience. These children often excel in environments with rich sensory experiences that help them stay alert and engaged.

Children can show varying levels of responsiveness across different senses, such as vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, movement (vestibular), body awareness (proprioception), and internal signals (interoception).