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As pediatric therapy providers, we often hear remarks like "Oh, he's just being a boy" when discussing the dynamic behavior of children. However, it's vital to recognize that when a child displays certain behaviors, it may be more than just a typical trait but rather a sign of deeper sensory needs that warrant attention. For instance, a child who is always on the move, constantly touching things, or seems to have boundless energy might be communicating a need for sensory input to help them self-regulate.
Below are some signs in which your child may benefit from occupational therapy to help with regulation and sensory processing:
1. Constant Movement: This can indicate low muscle tone or vestibular-seeking behavior. Children may find it easier to move around than to sit still, as it involves constant muscle engagement.
2. Using Extra Force or Being Aggressive: Kids who unintentionally exhibit aggression, like pushing too hard, might be seeking sensory input to understand their environment better.
3. Bumping and Crashing: Persistent bumping into objects might be a way for children to receive sensory feedback through their muscles and joints.
4. Touching Everyone and Everything: This behavior often highlights a need for tactile input and can be managed with alternative calming strategies.
5. Difficulty Listening: If your child does not follow directions or hear you when you call their name, it may mean that your child has difficulty with auditory processing. Challenges in auditory processing may cause a child to appear inattentive, needing strategies to filter relevant from irrelevant sounds. Occupational therapy can help a child develop the ability to listen to the “right” things and tune out background noise that may otherwise hinder their function.
6. Speaking Loudly or Making Noises: Using an unnecessarily loud voice or making noises constantly is a sign that your child may have a difficult time processing auditory, proprioceptive and vestibular information. When children want to increase their sensory input, they may use their voice or mouth to make noises as these noises provide extra input to their jaw, mouth and vocal cords.
These behaviors can be more than just typical childhood actions and indicate a need for external support to help your child participate fully in various life activities.
At North Shore Pediatric Therapy, our Occupational Therapy programs are designed to address these specific sensory processing needs. We create tailored treatment plans that provide safe and structured sensory input, enabling your child to navigate their world more comfortably and confidently.
Our dedicated team works closely with families to ensure that every child can thrive at home, in school, and in social settings. We encourage you to reach out to us to learn more about how we can support your child's unique needs.
Contact North Shore Pediatric Therapy today to get started. Call us at 877-486-4140 or submit a contact form. Our friendly specialists are eager to assist you and your family on this journey toward better understanding and supporting your child's development.
