Sensory Processing Disorder

Parenting and autism: Jessica’s story

Maria Mora — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0700

Twelve years ago, Jessica Watson’s daughter was diagnosed with autism. Watson drove home from the doctor’s office envisioning a bleak future for her 5-year-old. A decade later, she wishes she’d been able to see all that her daughter would accomplish. Now Watson serves as a beacon to other parents on the journey of parenting a child on the autism spectrum.

Don't mistake sensory issues for behavior issues

Maureen Wallace — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:00:00 -0700

Incessant finger chewing. Alarming head banging. Repetitive kicking. These all sound like elements of a typical toddler temper tantrum, right? Sometimes, children actually may be battling sensory issues.

Parenting and autism: Maria’s story

Maria Mora — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0700

When Maria Mora’s son was 18 months old, she began noticing patterns in his behavior and a frequent, unusual squeezing motion that resembled a seizure. As her concerns grew, she made an appointment with his pediatrician. That appointment was the first step on a bumpy road from doctor to doctor, and diagnosis to diagnosis.

Helping children with sensory challenges enjoy the holiday season

Guest Author — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:00:00 -0800

While the holiday season is supposed to be joyous, family gatherings and holiday decorations can actually be quite stressful for children with sensory issues, ADHD, Asperger’s, or just general social and behavioral issues.

Gift ideas for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder

Maria Mora — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0800

Wondering what to buy for a child with Sensory Processing Disorder? Don’t stress out. Kids with sensory issues love toys that stimulate without being over-stimulating. Try one of these four fun and therapeutic toys.

Create a sensory tool kit

Maria Mora — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 09:00:00 -0800

When it comes to kids with Sensory Processing Disorder and meltdowns, prevention goes a long way. Learn how to put together a bag of tricks to help your child navigate everything from loud music to stressful car rides.

Don't let special needs diminish Halloween fun

Maureen Wallace — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 08:00:00 -0700

This Halloween, it will be easy to huff and puff about a child who just shoved her fist into your candy bowl and walked away without a “thank you.” Instead, consider whether that child still might be learning fine motor skills or perhaps can’t speak yet.

Have a sensory smart Halloween

Maria Mora — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 12:00:00 -0700

Scratchy costumes, constricting masks and blinking lights, oh my! This Halloween, help your child with sensory processing disorder navigate the overload that can occur on this hectic holiday.

How to parent sensitive kids

Kori Ellis — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 06:37:00 -0700

Every child is different, and parenting a highly sensitive child isn't easy. If your child is especially sensitive, you need to learn to parent a little bit differently to make life easier on her and yourself.

Sensory Processing Disorder: Every family has a story

Maria Mora — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 07:00:00 -0700

Some studies estimate that Sensory Processing Disorder affects at least one in every 20 kids, and potentially as many as one in every six. Meet real kids and learn how SPD has affected their lives and their families.

Parenting Guru: When kids “catch” stress

Julie Weingarden Dubin — Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 -0700

David Code, Episcopal minister, father of two and author of Kids Pick Up on Everything: How Parental Stress is Toxic to Kids, explains why when it comes to children’s health, the real toxin is your tension, because kids pick up on the "vibe" you give off.

What is food therapy, and why does my child need it?

Christina Holt — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:00:00 -0700

If your child has been diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder or is being seen by a nutritionist for picky eating or poor growth patterns, ask your child's therapist, nutritionist or physician about the possible need and benefits of food therapy and how it can help your child.

Sensory Processing Disorder basics

SheKnows Parenting Editors — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 07:30:00 -0700

It's not uncommon for children who are on the autism spectrum to also have Sensory Processing Disorder. SheKnows has several helpful articles for parents of children with SPD, from how to recognize the symptoms to talking to your child's pediatrician and beyond.

Travel tips for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder

Maria Mora — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 09:00:00 -0800

Whether it’s your child’s first time traveling or she’s a seasoned pro, Sensory Processing Disorder symptoms can sneak up and derail her fun. Discover ways to keep travel plans running smoothly and your child with SPD feeling good while you're on the road.

How to deal with Sensory Processing Disorder meltdowns

Maria Mora — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:00:00 -0800

When kids with Sensory Processing Disorder become over-stimulated, the resulting meltdowns can be terrifying for everyone involved. Learn how to prevent, anticipate and cool down from overwhelming SPD meltdowns. As you and your family learn more about your child’s triggers and the best ways to calm down, meltdowns will become few and far between.

Help your child with Sensory Processing Disorder at school

Maria Mora — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:00:00 -0800

Kids with Sensory Processing Disorder are often labeled as having disruptive behavior, problems with social skills and difficulties learning. Without intervention, these children may slip through the cracks, performing poorly at school and suffering from depression and anxiety. Learn how to help your child with SPD at school, and give her the tools for success.

Sensory Processing Disorder help: What is a sensory diet?

Maria Mora — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 13:00:00 -0800

Kids with Sensory Processing Disorder benefit from structured activities that promote sensory integration throughout the day. You don’t need to be a professional to create opportunities for therapeutic play for your child. Develop a fun repertoire of activities to calm, focus and organize your child. This so-called sensory diet will help your child with everyday tasks and sensory modulation.

How to treat your child's Sensory Processing Disorder

Maria Mora — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:00:00 -0800

Sensory Processing Disorder can be overwhelming for parents. When a child has extreme meltdowns and problems with daily tasks, it’s hard to know where to start. The good news is, you have the power help. Many SPD treatments can be done at home, and parents and caregivers are the best resources for guiding children toward improvement.

Getting started with occupational therapy for Sensory Processing Disorder

Maria Mora — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:00:00 -0800

Children learn and develop through play. A child’s job is to have fun and develop basic self care, motor and developmental skills. Occupational therapy is a fun, family-oriented way to treat kids with Sensory Processing Disorder. Regardless of the severity and specifics of a child’s sensory issues, OT helps kids learn to function better at school and at home.

Four must-have Sensory Processing Disorder books

Maria Mora — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:00:00 -0800

With the help of experts like occupational therapists and pediatric neurologists, parents and caregivers can begin to understand the sometimes puzzling spectrum of Sensory Processing Disorder. These four books give parents and teachers insight into kids with SPD and offer solutions for therapies and games to try at home.

Learn to recognize Sensory Processing Disorder symptoms

Maria Mora — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:00:00 -0800

Sensory Processing Disorder can cause a huge variety of symptoms in children. Those symptoms vary in severity. So how do you know what to look for when it comes to your child’s behavior? Learn to recognize key symptoms and behaviors associated with SPD so you can quickly act on any red flags you notice.