Understanding Sensory Disorders in Preschoolers
Bringing up a preschooler comes with its own set of challenges. Navigating the unique needs of a child who has a sensory processing disorder can be overwhelming. We’ll explore what sensory disorders in preschoolers are, what the common types are, how to identify them, and how you can support your child.
What is a Sensory Disorder?
According to Healthline, a sensory disorder is a child's difficulty processing and responding to sensory information from their environment. It affects how the brain receives, organizes, and responds to sensory stimuli such as touch, sound, taste, and more. In preschoolers, these disorders can manifest in various ways, often leading to challenges in their daily lives.
Types of Sensory Disorders Common in Preschoolers
Children can experience various sensory processing disorders. These disorders can affect their ability to process and respond to sensory information received from their environment. Understanding sensory disorders can help you identify your child’s needs and support your child. Here are some common sensory disorders in preschoolers:
1. Tactile Sensitivity
Tactile sensitivity, or tactile defensiveness, is a heightened sensitivity or aversion to touch sensations. Your child may strongly react to certain textures, fabrics, or objects touching their skin. Your child may even resist hugs or physical touch. This can be especially difficult for you as a parent when it’s time to get ready for school or want to show your child physical attention.
2. Auditory Processing Disorder
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) affects how the brain processes and interprets auditory information. If your child finds it difficult to follow instructions, focus in noisy environments, or understand subtle differences in pitch and tone, they may be experiencing APD. It may seem that your child is purposely not concentrating or listening to instructions, but background noises may be overstimulating them.
3. Oral Sensory Issues
Oral sensory issues involve mouth and oral sensory processing difficulties. When your child is experiencing oral sensory issues, it may seem that they are a fussy eater. But instead, they are overstimulated by textures, tastes or temperature. On the other hand, some children may want to increase oral sensory input and display excessive mouthing or chewing behaviors. For example, sucking their thumb or chewing on pens and pencils.
4. Proprioceptive Dysfunction
Proprioceptive dysfunction refers to difficulties in the body's ability to sense and perceive its position, movement, and force exertion. You may think your child is just clumsy. However, children with this dysfunction have difficulties balancing and can also exert too much or too little force when handling objects or playing. Your child may be struggling with body awareness, coordination and motor planning.
5. Visual Processing Disorder
Visual Processing Disorder (VPD) affects how the brain interprets and makes sense of visual information. If you have noticed that your child is struggling with reading, writing, or following objects with their eyes, they may be experiencing VPD. Your child may struggle with visual perception, spatial awareness, and visual-motor integration.
6. Vestibular Dysfunction
Vestibular dysfunction relates to difficulties within the vestibular system. The vestibular system is located in the inner ear canal and transmits important information about where your body is in relation to the brain. You may notice that your child gets easily carsick, struggles to sit still, loses balance out of nowhere, or is constantly moving around. Vestibular dysfunction may make your child fear movement or avoid having their feet leave the ground.
Your child can experience a combination of different sensory processing disorders so you may notice overlapping symptoms or behaviors. By understanding what is happening with your child, you can develop strategies to help them in their daily routines and educational environments.
Identifying Sensory Processing Disorders
Identifying sensory processing disorders in your child can be tricky, as certain behaviors may overlap with normal developmental milestones. If you notice consistent behavior patterns, like extreme reactions to specific sensations or difficulties with transitions, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional to determine if your child has a sensory processing disorder and how you can help them.
Supportive Measures at Green Grass Nursery
At Green Grass Nursery, we provide an inclusive educational environment that caters to every toddler's unique needs, including those with sensory processing disorders. We incorporate the Reggio Emilia approach in our teaching, ensuring toddlers with sensory processing disorders benefit from their learning environment. We use experiential learning, creative expression and sensory stimulation to engage the children in age-appropriate activities while encouraging children with sensory processing disorders to try new stimuli in a safe and supportive environment.
Nurturing the Unique Abilities of Preschoolers with Sensory Disorders at Green Grass Nursery
You can make a huge difference in your child’s life by identifying and understanding the difficulties they may be facing. At Grass Green Nursery, we support you and your child with an educational environment where every child can thrive.
Contact us today to book a tour and learn how we can make a difference in your child’s life.
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