Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how the brain interprets and responds to sensory information such as sound, touch, and taste. Children may be hypersensitive to certain stimuli and experience discomfort, or they could be hyposensitive and seek additional sensory input. SPD can present challenging behaviors in children both at home and in the classroom. As a parent, gaining a deeper understanding of SPD can help you support your child’s learning experience.

Recognizing the Signs

Common symptoms of SPD can include difficulties with motor coordination, overreaction or underreaction to sensory stimuli, and seeming either too hyperactive or lethargic. Under-Treated and Under-Understood: Children and Adults with Sensory Processing Disorder took an in-depth look into SPD’s diagnostic criteria, showing how these symptoms can be confounding to parents and educators who are not familiar with SPD.

Creating an Inclusive Environment

Collaboration between parents and teachers is crucial for creating an inclusive and supportive classroom environment for students with SPD. Strategies include adjusting lighting in the classroom, providing seating options, and accommodating breaks during the class. This resource from the National Center for Learning Disabilities offers additional tips for modifying a classroom environment to best support a child with SPD.

Relating to Other Conditions

SPD can often co-occur with other conditions such as ADHD and Autism. The intersectionality of these different diagnoses requires a comprehensive understanding of the child’s sensory, cognitive, and emotional experience. To delve further into this topic, feel free to visit our previous posts on Creating Artistic Spaces for Gifted Young Artists, and Understanding Twice-Exceptionality: A Parent’s Guide.

Engaging with Sensory Integration Activities

Children with SPD may benefit from sensory integration activities, designed to help them become accustomed to different types of sensory experiences in a controlled manner. Incorporating sensory play at home can enhance their comfort with a variety of stimuli, as discussed in our blog on Sensory Play: Why It Matters for Special Needs Development.

Resources for Parents

Having a child diagnosed with SPD can be overwhelming. Besides working closely with educators and therapists, it will be helpful to connect with other parents and support networks – both online and in your local community. Our guide on Seeking Support: Finding the Right Community for Special Needs Families offers some starting points.

In conclusion, understanding Sensory Processing Disorder in the classroom provides a roadmap to supporting your child’s unique learning journey. Patience, collaboration, and tailored interventions can pave the way for academic success despite sensory challenges.