Tips for Parents Dealing with Sensory Processing Disorder
When you have a child with a sensory processing disorder, you may feel guilty that your child is struggling. You may try to “fix” your child, but you need to understand some very important tips for dealing with a sensory processing disorder.
Remember, It is not Your Fault: Nothing you did and nothing you can do will change who your child is. Many people have sensory issues that go unnoticed. Every child is different just as every person is different. You are doing the best you can do, and your child is special and loved just the way he/she is.
Parenting Strategies are Different: When parenting a child with SPD, you need to remember that what works on other children won’t work the same with your child. It is important to know the sensory stimulus that triggers an upset and avoid it. Be sure that consequences are not based on your child’s reaction to sensory stimulation.
Work on Sensory Activities: As a parent of a child with SPD, it is important to remember your child can’t live in a bubble. Instead of overloading their senses, work on small sensory activities each day to help them adapt to sensory stimulation. Let them mix with their hands, crush ice, squish Ziplocs full of gel or peanut butter.
Nothing works forever: All kids change and grow. When kids are little time-out may work, but as they get into teenage years, you have to change those strategies to grounding or limiting freedoms. Changes in a child with sensory processing disorder can be more drastic, so it’s important to remember that your routines, aids, and structure will need to change as your child grows and changes.
The challenges that come along with a sensory challenged child can seem overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can help your child overcome anything. What other tips do you have for parents with a sensory sensitive child?