You’ve probably heard the term “sensory processing” — maybe from your child’s teacher, a playgroup facilitator, or another parent. But what does it actually mean? And how do you know if it’s something that’s affecting your child?
This guide breaks down what sensory processing is, how sensory differences show up in children, and what you can do to help.
What is sensory processing?
Every second of every day, our brains receive a flood of information from our senses — not just the five you learned about in school (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch), but also two lesser-known senses that are just as important:
- Proprioception — your sense of where your body is in space (how hard you’re pressing, how far you’re reaching)
- Vestibular sense — your sense of balance and movement
Sensory processing is the brain’s ability to receive all this incoming information, organise it, and respond in an appropriate way. For most people, this happens automatically and unconsciously. But for some children, the brain processes sensory input differently — either over-responding, under-responding, or seeking out more of a particular type of input.
What is sensory processing disorder?
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) refers to patterns of atypical sensory processing that significantly impact daily functioning. It’s worth noting that SPD is not a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5 (the diagnostic manual used in Australia and internationally) — but sensory processing difficulties are widely recognised by paediatric therapists and are commonly seen in children with:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- ADHD and attention difficulties
- Developmental coordination disorder
- Anxiety
- No formal diagnosis at all
The absence of a formal diagnosis does not mean your child’s sensory experiences aren’t real or significant. If sensory differences are affecting your child’s daily life, they deserve support — regardless of whether there’s a diagnostic label.
How do sensory differences show up?
Children with sensory processing differences typically fall into one or more of these patterns:
Over-responsive (sensory sensitive)
The nervous system reacts more strongly than expected to sensory input. These children may:
- Cover their ears in normal environments
- Refuse foods based on texture, temperature or smell
- Become distressed by clothing tags, sock seams or certain fabrics
- Avoid being touched or touching certain textures
- Become overwhelmed in busy, noisy places like shopping centres or school
Under-responsive (sensory seeking)
The nervous system doesn’t register input as strongly, so the child seeks more. These children may:
- Crash into furniture, walls or other people
- Constantly touch, mouth or manipulate objects
- Spin, swing, or rock for extended periods
- Seem unaware of pain or temperature
- Have difficulty knowing how hard they’re pressing when writing or playing
Mixed patterns
Many children show both over- and under-responsiveness in different sensory channels — for example, highly sensitive to sound but craving deep pressure touch.
How can occupational therapy help?
Paediatric occupational therapists who specialise in sensory processing use a framework called Sensory Integration (SI) therapy. Through carefully structured, play-based activities, we help the brain learn to organise and respond to sensory information more effectively.
A typical sensory OT session might involve movement activities (swinging, spinning, climbing), tactile exploration, deep pressure input, or obstacle courses — all designed to give the nervous system the right kind of challenge in a safe and controlled way.
We also work with families to develop a sensory diet — a personalised plan of sensory activities your child can do throughout the day to stay regulated and ready to engage with life.
When should I see an OT?
If your child’s sensory differences are affecting their daily life — their ability to participate in school, socialise with peers, manage meals, or get through basic routines — it’s worth a conversation with a paediatric OT. You don’t need a referral or a diagnosis to book an assessment.
At South Eastern OT in Narre Warren, we offer a free 15-minute phone consultation where you can share your concerns and we’ll help you work out the best next step.
South Eastern OT provides paediatric occupational therapy for children aged 0–12 across South East Melbourne, including Narre Warren, Berwick, Cranbourne, Pakenham, Officer and Dandenong.