What is Sensory Regulation?
Sensory regulation is a child’s ability to notice, understand, and respond to sensory information (like touch, sound, movement, sight, smell and taste) in a way that helps them stay calm, focused, and comfortable. It’s a key part of how children manage their energy, emotions, and attention throughout the day.
Children use their senses to explore, learn, and connect with the world. But for some, sensory input can feel too big, too small, or just… off. This can make everyday situations feel overwhelming, confusing or even distressing.
Sensory regulation helps children manage these experiences, so they can stay engaged, feel safe, and navigate their day with greater ease.
What Are the Signs of Sensory Regulation Difficulties?
Sensory challenges can look different for every child. Some kids seem to notice too much, others not enough, and many fluctuate depending on the day, their mood, or their environment.
Here are some common patterns you might notice:
Low Registration / Under-Responsive
When a child’s brain doesn’t register sensory input as strongly, so they may seem unaware of it. They may:
- Seem unaware of mess, noise, or pain
- Not notice when someone calls their name
- Appear tired, flat, or disconnected
- Seek lots of movement (running, spinning, crashing)
- Seem unaware of personal space or surroundings
Sensory Seeking
When a child’s brain doesn’t register sensory input as strongly, so they actively look for intense sensory input to help them feel regulated or alert. They may:
- Touch everything or everyone
- Jump, climb, spin or fidget frequently
- Seek tight hugs and strong tastes, smells or textures
- Make loud noises
- Struggle to sit still or concentrate without movement
High-Sensitivity/ Over Responsive
When a child’s brain registers sensory input very strongly, so everyday sensations can feel intense, uncomfortable or hard to manage. These children may not avoid sensory input straight away, but it often unsettles them or triggers emotional responses. They may:
- Feel distressed by loud or unpredictable sounds (e.g. hand dryers in public bathrooms)
- Get upset by bright lights, crowded rooms or unexpected touch
- Notice small sensations (like seams or textures) more intensely than others
- Feel uncomfortable with messy play, strong smells, or certain food textures
- React emotionally to small changes or surprises
Sensory Avoidance
When a child’s brain registers too much sensory input, so everyday sensations can feel unpredictable, overwhelming or threatening. These children may try to avoid those sensations to feel safer or more in control. They may:
- Refuse certain clothes, foods, textures or messy play
- Avoid crowds, loud environments, or group activities
- Resist being hugged, bathed or having their hair/teeth brushed
- Prefer quiet, low-stimulation spaces
What Causes Sensory Regulation Difficulties?
Sensory processing differences can occur on their own or as part of a broader developmental picture. They may be linked to:
- Neurodivergence (e.g. Autism, ADHD)
- Anxiety or trauma history
- Delayed gross motor or fine motor development
- Emotional regulation
- Sensory integration challenges
- Unknown or mixed causes
How Will Working on Sensory Regulation Help My Child?
Sensory regulation plays a big role in how children experience the world and how safe, settled and connected they feel in it. Building these skills can help your child:
- Learn more effectively when their sensory needs are supported in the classroom
- Handle busy, unfamiliar, or unpredictable places like shopping centres, playgrounds, or social events with more confidence
- Respond to sensory input like sound, touch, or movement in ways that feel more manageable
- Take part in play, learning, and group activities in ways that feel comfortable and meaningful
- Manage changes, transitions, and surprises with less distress
- Build body awareness and use strategies to feel more comfortable and in control
Sensory Regulation:
Facts vs Myths
Myth:
“They’re just being sensitive.”
Fact:
Sensory behaviours are real, body-based responses. A scratchy tag or sudden noise might feel unbearable to a child with sensory sensitivities.
Myth:
“They’ll grow out of it.”
Fact:
Some children do become more tolerant over time, but many benefit from early support to build coping skills and reduce stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can Occupational Therapy help with sensory issues?
Occupational Therapists (Ots) help you understand how your child processes sensory input. They work with you to create strategies and routines that honour your child’s needs and support them to feel safe, settled, and engaged in daily life.
What might therapy look like?
Therapy often involves play-based activities that give the body the input it needs, such as swinging, deep pressure, obstacle courses, or sensory bins. The aim is to help your child explore strategies that support their regulation and comfort in a way that feels right for them.
What can I do at home to help?
You can:
- Create sensory-friendly spaces
- Include regular sensory breaks and movement in your routine
- Offer tools like noise-reducing headphones, chewable items, or weighted cushions
- Give your child choices and involve them in finding what feels good
Your OT can guide you in tailoring these supports to your child’s unique profile.
When should I seek support?
If sensory differences are making it harder for your child to enjoy everyday experiences like play, routines, or group settings — it’s worth having a chat with an Occupational Therapist. Understanding and support early on can make a big difference in how your child feels and functions day to day. Want to know more about how OT can help your child? Feel free to get in touch.
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