Sensory Processing Differences
We all take in information through our senses — touch, sound, sight, taste, smell, movement and body position — and our brains decide what to pay attention to and what to ignore. Some children process this information differently. They may be very sensitive to noise, clothing or haircuts, constantly seek out movement and pressure, or seem not to notice things other children would.
These differences can make everyday routines, busy places and the classroom much harder. Occupational therapy helps you understand what your child is experiencing and builds practical strategies that help them feel calm, alert and ready to take part.
Signs we often see
- Distress with noise, crowds, clothing tags, haircuts, nail cutting or getting messy
- Constantly moving, crashing, climbing or chewing
- Avoiding playground equipment or seeming fearful of movement
- Difficulty settling to sleep, eat or concentrate
- Big reactions to changes in routine or environment
How occupational therapy can help
A sensory assessment looks at how your child responds to different kinds of sensory input and how that affects attention, behaviour and participation at home and school. We combine questionnaires with observation and a conversation with you.
From there we work with you on strategies that fit your child’s day — adjustments to routines and environments, activities that help your child regulate, and ways to gradually build tolerance for the things they find hard. We share these with educators so that your child is supported at preschool and school too.
Our experience
Luke has primarily worked with children who have a sensory impairment coupled with a range of complex diagnoses. Claudia has supported children with sensory processing difficulties and enjoys helping children with sensory processing, motor skills, play, self-care and feeding. Our therapists regularly support children whose sensory differences affect their daily routines, learning and play.
Services that can help
Therapy is always tailored to your child, but these are the services families most often use.
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Assessment
A clear picture of your child’s strengths and the areas where they need support, as the starting point for therapy or for NDIS planning.
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ADL Specific Training
Independence in the routines of daily life — dressing, toileting, washing, grooming, mealtimes and preparing food.
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Gross Motor Skills Development
Confidence with the big movements — balance, ball skills, riding a bike and coordinating the whole body for play and sport.
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Fine Motor Skills Development
Building the small, precise hand movements children need for dressing, eating, cutting, drawing and classroom tasks.
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Sensory processing: your questions
Is sensory processing disorder a diagnosis?
Sensory processing differences are not a stand-alone medical diagnosis, but they are common — particularly in autistic children and children with ADHD — and they can have a big effect on daily life. An occupational therapy sensory assessment describes your child’s sensory profile and how it affects them.
What happens in a sensory assessment?
We ask you (and, where helpful, your child’s teacher) about how your child responds to everyday sensory experiences, observe your child during play and daily tasks, and explain what we found in plain language with recommendations.
Can sensory strategies be used at school?
Yes. With your consent we share practical strategies with your child’s teacher and can visit the classroom to see what support would help.
Ready to get started?
Tell us a little about your child and what you’d like help with, and we’ll be in touch to talk through the next steps.