Every day, our brains process countless sensations—from sights and sounds to touch and internal body signals—allowing us to navigate the world safely. But for some children, this process doesn’t work smoothly. In this week’s vlog, Carol Kranowitz, MA, author of The Out-of-Sync Child, explains different types of sensory processing differences and how they impact behavior, learning, and daily life.

What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is our brain’s way of organizing and responding to the information we receive from our environment and our own bodies. For example, if your hand gets too close to a flame, your sensory system sends a quick signal to pull it away. When this system doesn’t work properly, it’s called Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)—a bit like a traffic jam in the brain, as coined by therapist Jean Ayres.

Types of Sensory Modulation Problems

  1. Over-Responsivity (Overload):
    Some children are highly sensitive to sensations and quickly feel overwhelmed. Common reactions include hiding under a table, covering their ears, or avoiding certain textures, foods, or experiences.

  2. Under-Responsivity:
    Other children barely notice sensory input. They may seem "spacey" or unaware of their surroundings, requiring more intense interaction to engage them.

  3. Sensory Craving:
    Some kids constantly seek sensations and are never satisfied. They might fidget, touch everything, or crave movement to meet their sensory needs.

Other Sensory Challenges

  • Sensory Discrimination Problems:Difficulty differentiating between sensory inputs, like distinguishing hot vs. cold, or telling apart letters on a page.

  • Eight Sensory Systems to Know:

    1. Sight

    2. Hearing

    3. Touch (Tactile)

    4. Smell (Olfactory)

    5. Taste (Gustatory)

    6. Vestibular (balance & movement)

    7. Proprioception (body position & muscles)

    8. Interoception (internal body signals like hunger or thirst)

Key Takeaways:

  • Sensory processing differences are common and impact how children perceive and respond to the world.

  • Understanding whether a child over-responds, under-responds, or craves sensory input can guide strategies for support.

  • Early awareness and tailored interventions can help children engage more confidently with their environment.

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Take a listen.

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