How do I know if my child struggles with Sensory Processing Disorder? 

Embrace the Fun of Summer with a Sensory-Friendly Twist!

Ah, summer! The season of sunshine, beach days, parades, carnivals, and vacations. It’s a time for fun, relaxation, and making memories. But for some kiddos, particularly those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), summer’s lively atmosphere can be a bit overwhelming. Families often notice the first signs of sensory issues during these bustling months. Kids might get frazzled by large crowds, loud noises, sudden changes, or just the sheer heat of it all.

Did you know SPD affects 1 in 6 children? That’s quite a few little ones dealing with sensory overload. Despite this, SPD is often misunderstood or overlooked by healthcare providers. Children with SPD have nervous systems that are on high alert, making it hard to filter and manage everyday sensory input. Unfortunately, concerns from parents are sometimes brushed off with a casual “It’s just a phase.” But here’s the scoop: early intervention is crucial, and addressing the root cause—not just the symptoms—makes all the difference.

Signs Your Child Might Have SPD

Keep an eye out for these common signs of SPD in children:

1. Oversensitivity to Touch and Textures: Some kids might find certain fabrics itchy or uncomfortable. They might also shy away from being touched or get distressed by tight clothing.

1. Sound Sensitivity: Everyday noises can be too much, leading to ear-covering or fear of sounds like vacuum cleaners and sirens.

1. Seeking or Avoiding Sensory Input: Some children crave touch and might engage in rough play, while others avoid physical contact and dislike activities like haircuts or teeth brushing.

1. Motor Skill Challenges: Tasks like buttoning clothes, writing, or riding a bike might be tricky.

1. Balance and Coordination Issues: Frequent tripping or appearing clumsy can be a sign of SPD.

1. Spatial Awareness Difficulties: Bumping into things or people often indicates trouble with spatial awareness.

1. Overwhelm in Crowds: Busy places like malls or parties might cause anxiety or distress.

1. Transition Troubles: Moving from one activity to another can trigger meltdowns.

1. Emotional Outbursts: Frequent tantrums and difficulty calming down after sensory overload are common.

1. Activity Level: Kids with SPD can be either hyperactive or unusually inactive.

1. Sleep Struggles and Attention Issues: Sensory sensitivities can affect sleep and focus.

1. Repetitive Behaviors: Engaging in repetitive actions to self-soothe or manage sensory input.

What’s Happening Inside?

Sensory processing involves three steps:

1. Sensory input enters through nerves and the spinal cord, gathering info from inside and outside the body.

1. The brain processes this info, deciding what to pay attention to and what to ignore.

1. The brain and nervous system send instructions to react to the sensory input.

When these pathways are disrupted, the brain receives mixed signals, leading to misinterpretation and challenging behaviors. The root cause of SPD is a communication glitch in the nervous system, often linked to something called subluxation.

The Perfect Storm: Factors Leading to SPD

Several factors can create a “perfect storm” for SPD:

• High-Stress Pregnancy: Maternal stress can affect fetal brain development.

• Birth Interventions: Procedures like forceps, vacuum extraction, and C-sections can impact brainstem function.

• Environmental Factors: Toxins and pollutants can influence neurodevelopment.

• Genetic Predisposition: Some kids are more genetically susceptible to SPD, which can be triggered by environmental factors.

Finding the Path Forward: Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care

Neurological INSiGHT Scans can pinpoint subluxation and nervous system dysregulation, helping to identify what’s causing sensory struggles. If you’ve tried everything from OT to sensory “workarounds” and still seek a smoother experience for your child, it’s worth exploring Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care.

This specialized chiropractic care addresses the root cause of SPD, leading to better sensory processing and emotional regulation. Improvements can include fewer emotional outbursts, better sleep, and enhanced focus and attention.

If you suspect your child might have SPD, don’t wait. Reach out to Health From Within in Orland Park, IL today. Early intervention and the right care can transform your child’s development and your family’s well-being. Not local? Check out the PX Docs directory to find a nearby PX Doc.

Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care offers a drug-free, non-invasive solution to SPD, helping families in Orland Park, IL, and beyond create a more enjoyable, sensory-friendly summer and beyond. Visit us at our office in Orland Park, IL, and take the first step towards a calmer, happier life for your child and family.