Sensory Processing

Sensory Processing Disorder: Recognizing Signs and Finding Solutions in Jupiter FL

18 min readBy Marcey Murray, M.S.

Comprehensive guide to understanding sensory processing disorder signs, symptoms, and evidence-based solutions from Palm Beach County's leading multi-sensory learning expert.

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how the nervous system receives and responds to sensory information. For many children, particularly those with autism and ADHD, sensory processing challenges can significantly impact daily functioning, learning, and social interactions.

As a National Board Certified Teacher and multi-sensory learning specialist with over 30 years of experience working with neurodivergent children in Jupiter FL and throughout Palm Beach County, I've helped countless families understand and address sensory processing challenges.

This comprehensive guide will help you recognize the signs of SPD and discover effective strategies to support your child's sensory needs.

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory Processing Disorder occurs when the brain has difficulty organizing and responding to sensory information from the environment and the body. This can result in over-responsiveness, under-responsiveness, or seeking behaviors across different sensory systems.

Over-Responsive

Reacts strongly to sensory input that others find normal or pleasant

Under-Responsive

Requires more intense sensory input to register and respond appropriately

Sensory Seeking

Actively seeks out intense sensory experiences to feel regulated

The Seven Sensory Systems

Understanding how each sensory system can be affected helps identify specific areas of challenge and intervention.

Visual System

How we process what we see

Over-Responsive Signs

  • Covers eyes or squints in normal lighting
  • Avoids looking at colorful or busy patterns
  • Difficulty with reading or tracking objects
  • Prefers dimly lit environments

Under-Responsive Signs

  • Seeks out bright lights or spinning objects
  • Stares at lights or reflective surfaces
  • May not notice visual details others see
  • Difficulty with visual discrimination tasks

Auditory System

How we process sounds and noise

Over-Responsive Signs

  • Covers ears frequently or complains sounds are too loud
  • Distressed by unexpected noises (vacuum, blender)
  • Difficulty concentrating in noisy environments
  • May hear sounds others don't notice

Under-Responsive Signs

  • Seeks out loud music or sounds
  • May not respond when name is called
  • Enjoys making loud noises
  • Difficulty following verbal instructions

Tactile System

How we process touch and texture

Over-Responsive Signs

  • Avoids messy play (finger painting, sand)
  • Dislikes certain clothing textures or tags
  • Resistant to hair washing or nail cutting
  • May not like hugs or physical affection

Under-Responsive Signs

  • Seeks out messy or rough textures
  • May not notice when hands or face are dirty
  • Enjoys deep pressure or tight hugs
  • May touch everything or everyone

Proprioceptive System

Body awareness and position in space

Over-Responsive Signs

  • Appears stiff or rigid in movements
  • Avoids playground equipment or physical activities
  • May seem clumsy or uncoordinated
  • Difficulty with motor planning

Under-Responsive Signs

  • Seeks heavy work activities (carrying, pushing)
  • Enjoys jumping, crashing, or rough play
  • May appear to have low muscle tone
  • Difficulty knowing how much pressure to use

Early Warning Signs by Age

Recognizing sensory processing challenges early allows for timely intervention and support.

1
Infants (0-12 months)

  • Extreme fussiness or difficulty being soothed
  • Over or under-reaction to touch, sound, or light
  • Feeding difficulties or extreme food preferences
  • Sleep disturbances or irregular sleep patterns
  • Delayed motor milestones

2
Toddlers (1-3 years)

  • Frequent meltdowns in sensory-rich environments
  • Extreme reactions to clothing, textures, or grooming
  • Delayed speech or communication skills
  • Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
  • Aggressive or self-injurious behaviors

3
Preschoolers (3-5 years)

  • Avoidance of age-appropriate play activities
  • Difficulty with fine motor skills (coloring, cutting)
  • Social challenges or difficulty making friends
  • Extreme picky eating or food aversions
  • Difficulty following multi-step directions

4
School Age (6+ years)

  • Academic challenges despite normal intelligence
  • Difficulty with handwriting or other fine motor tasks
  • Problems with attention and focus in classroom
  • Social isolation or peer relationship difficulties
  • Emotional regulation challenges

Evidence-Based Intervention Strategies

Home Environment Modifications

Simple changes that can make a big difference in daily life.

  • Create sensory-friendly spaces with calming colors and lighting
  • Provide sensory tools like fidgets, weighted blankets, or noise-canceling headphones
  • Establish predictable routines and visual schedules
  • Offer sensory breaks throughout the day
  • Use timers and warnings before transitions

School Accommodations

Working with educators to support classroom success.

  • Request preferential seating away from distractions
  • Allow movement breaks and sensory tools
  • Modify assignments to accommodate sensory needs
  • Provide advance notice of schedule changes
  • Create a calm-down space in the classroom

Therapeutic Interventions

Professional support for comprehensive sensory integration.

  • Occupational therapy with sensory integration focus
  • Multi-sensory learning approaches
  • Speech therapy for communication challenges
  • Physical therapy for motor skill development
  • Behavioral therapy for emotional regulation

Specialized Sensory Processing Support

At Zen Den Multi-Sensory Learning, we specialize in comprehensive sensory processing assessments and interventions. Our evidence-based approach helps children in Jupiter FL develop the sensory regulation skills they need to thrive at home, school, and in the community.

Explore Our Sensory Programs

When to Seek Professional Help

Signs It's Time for Professional Assessment

Consider seeking professional evaluation if sensory processing challenges are significantly impacting your child's daily functioning.

  • Sensory behaviors interfere with learning or school performance
  • Social relationships are affected by sensory responses
  • Daily activities (eating, sleeping, dressing) are consistently challenging
  • Family stress levels are high due to sensory-related behaviors

Building Your Support Team

A comprehensive approach to sensory processing disorder often involves multiple professionals working together to support your child's needs.

  • Multi-sensory learning specialists for comprehensive sensory education
  • Occupational therapists specializing in sensory integration
  • Developmental pediatricians for medical evaluation
  • School support teams for educational accommodations

Empowering Your Child's Sensory Journey

Understanding sensory processing disorder is the first step toward helping your child develop the skills they need to navigate their sensory world successfully. With early identification, appropriate interventions, and ongoing support, children with SPD can learn to regulate their sensory responses and participate fully in daily activities.

At Zen Den Multi-Sensory Learning, we've helped hundreds of families in Jupiter FL and throughout Palm Beach County understand and address sensory processing challenges. Our individualized approach ensures that each child receives the specific support they need to thrive in their unique sensory world.

Ready to support your child's sensory development? 🌟

Schedule Your Sensory Assessment

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