Trushali
- 13 March 2026
Sensory Processing Issues in Children: A Quick Guide
What are sensory processing issues?
Children with sensory processing issues have trouble handling information from their senses, including sight and sound. They experience too much or too little stimulation. This can make it hard for them to feel comfortable. They might run out of a room that feels too loud or bright, or meltdown if they are overwhelmed. It can also cause problems with learning and interacting with other kids.Â
Kids with sensory processing issues may struggle with information from their five basic senses: sound, touch, taste, sight and smell. But there are three other senses that may be affected. Proprioception has to do with where their bodies are in relation to other people and things. The vestibular sensation has to do with motion, balance, and using the right body part at the right time. And interoception involves being aware of what’s going on inside their body, reading cues for things like hunger, thirst and the need to go to the bathroom.
Children with autism often have sensory processing issues, which are now included in the list of symptoms that may be part of an autism diagnosis. Many kids with ADHD or OCD also have sensory processing issues, as well kids with no other diagnosis. Though some people use the term sensory processing disorder, it is not a disorder listed in the DSM-5, the official guide to mental health disorders.
What are the symptoms of sensory processing issues?
There are two types of sensory processing issues: Â
Some kids are hypersensitive (oversensitive). To them, things feel louder, brighter, etc. than they do for other people. They can get overwhelmed easily. Kids who are hypersensitive are called sensory aversive.
Some kids are hyposensitive (under-sensitive). Normal stimulation doesn’t feel like much to them. They look for strong sensory experiences, like tight hugs and moving fast. Kids who are hyposensitive are called sensory seeking.
Some kids are hypersensitive and hyposensitive at the same time for different senses. Others are just hypersensitive or just hyposensitive.Â
Hypersensitive children may struggle with:Â
Bright lights and loud noises Â
Clothing feeling scratchy or uncomfortableÂ
Shoes feeling too tightÂ
Background noises that others don’t noticeÂ
Being touched, even by people they know and likeÂ
Fear of swings and other playground toysÂ
Bumping into things and seeming clumsyÂ
Not knowing how much force they’re using, so they might rip the paper when trying to erase or slam down objects accidentallyÂ
Hyposensitive kids may:Â
Always want to touch people or texturesÂ
Get too close to people, even when other kids their age understand personal spaceÂ
Not be upset by injuries that are painful for other kidsÂ
Not know their own strengthÂ
Have trouble sitting stillÂ
Love jumping and crashing into thingsÂ
Love deep pressure, like tight hugsÂ
Love intense movement like going fast, spinning in circles or being tossed in the airÂ
How are sensory processing issues diagnosed?
Sensory processing issues are not an official mental health disorder. However, getting treatment can still be helpful. To find out whether a child has sensory processing issues, a professional can give the child sensory tests. Observations from parents and other adults in the child’s life are also an important part of diagnosis.Â
How are sensory processing issues treated?
Sensory processing issues are often treated with occupational therapy. Occupational therapists (OTs) use a treatment called sensory integration therapy. OTs work with kids in a special gym where they can move around a lot and get the sensory stimulation they need. Â
There is no scientific proof yet that this therapy works. However, many parents say that it helps their kids feel better and manage their behavior more effectively.
Parents and teachers can also help kids with sensory processing issues. Some ideas include:Â
Helping them avoid bright lights or loud noisesÂ
Using textures and weights that make the child feel comfortableÂ
Giving them time to move (like jumping, stomping, or bouncing on a ball)Â
Students with sensory processing issues can qualify for accommodations in the classroom, including fidget toys, sensory breaks, and lunch in a quiet setting.