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.

Clinic Locations:

Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste. 11 — (516) 829-0030

Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr. — (516) 420-2900

Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd. — (516) 367-1111

Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave. — (631) 243-0247

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

Bayside: Aquatic Therapy:208-32 Cross Island Pkwy. — (718) 224-8480

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

Tel: (516) 829-0030

Serving: Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn & Manhattan

Sources: Resource 1 Resource 2

Links: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube

Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy

Author

Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy

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.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, which together make up the central nervous system. Because the nervous system controls how the body communicates and functions, MS can lead to a variety of symptoms

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is a general term for conditions that cause a decline in memory, thinking, and daily function. It affects a person’s ability to complete everyday tasks and may impact behavior, communication, and mobility. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common fo

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain condition that gradually affects a person’s memory, thinking abilities, and behavior. Over time, it interferes with a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks, even the simplest ones. It is the most common cause

Balance Disorders Explained: How Physical Therapy Helps Improve Stability and Prevent Falls

Feeling unsteady can make daily life difficult and increase your risk of falling. Learn how our personalized physical therapy programs help you regain your balance, build stability, and move with confidence once again.

Understanding Myofascial Release and Trigger Point Therapy

Myofascial release, also known as trigger point therapy or pressure point therapy, is a hands-on treatment used by physical therapists to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore normal muscle function. This technique focuses on releasing tight areas wit

Regaining Balance: How VOR Exercises Help Reduce Dizziness

Feeling dizzy, unsteady, or off-balance can make even simple daily activities feel overwhelming. If head movements trigger dizziness or blurred vision, Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex (VOR) exercises may be an important part of your recovery. These exercises help