A Quick Guide to Sensory Processing Disorder in Children

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how a child’s brain receives and interprets information from the senses. Some children may feel overwhelmed by everyday sensations, while others may seem under-responsive, appearing unfazed by things that typically draw attention. These sensory differences can influence how a child plays, learns, behaves, and interacts with others.

Signs That a Child May Be Struggling With Sensory Processing

SPD looks different in every child, but common behaviors may include:

• Touching everything and everyone — difficulty keeping hands to themselves
• Not understanding personal space during play or conversations
• Frequent clumsiness or bumping into objects
• High tolerance for pain, appearing calm even after injuries
• Overly rough or intense play without realizing their own strength
• Trouble sitting still, often fidgeting or seeking movement
• Loving motion such as spinning, swinging, or jumping
• Seeking risky activities, sometimes without understanding danger

What Causes Sensory Processing Differences?

While there is no single cause, research points to several contributing factors:

• Genetic influences: Twin studies suggest a hereditary component to sensory sensitivity.
• Neurological differences: Children with SPD often show unique brain responses when processing multiple sensory inputs.
• Difficulty adapting to sensory input: Instead of becoming used to repeated sensations (like sounds or touch), some children continue reacting strongly each time.

How Occupational Therapy Helps

Occupational Therapy (OT) is one of the most effective treatments for SPD because it helps children understand, organize, and respond to sensory information more comfortably. OT may include:

• Assessing the child’s sensory profile to determine specific sensitivities and needs
• Working closely with families to create practical strategies for daily routines
• Using structured, play-based interventions to help regulate sensory input
• Building confidence so the child can participate in daily activities with less stress and more comfort

With the right support, children can learn to manage sensory challenges and thrive in school, play, and home environments.

Schedule Your Sensory Evaluation

Our expert team at Reddy Care Physical, Occupational & Aquatic Therapy is here to help your child build the skills needed for confidence and independence.

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North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy. — (516) 344-0030

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Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd. — (516) 992-2282

New York City: 250 West 93rd St. — (212) 580-0125

Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Hwy. — (631) 446-1480

Amityville: 565 Albany Ave. — (631) 532-0906

Rockaway Beach - (NEW): 2-30 Beach 102nd St., Ste. 28 — (718) 945-9575

In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy

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Sources: Resource 1 Resource 2 

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.