Some children feel everyday sounds, textures and lights much more strongly than others, while some seek strong sensations all the time. Here are the signs, and how to help.
Your child screams at the sound of the blender, will only wear one T-shirt, refuses to touch sand, or cannot stop spinning, jumping and crashing into things. These are not “bad habits”. Many children, especially children with autism or ADHD, process information from their senses differently, and everyday life can feel overwhelming or not stimulating enough.
What is sensory processing?
Our brain constantly takes in information from the senses (sound, sight, touch, taste, smell, movement and body position) and decides how to respond. When this works smoothly, we ignore the hum of a fan and focus on a conversation. When it is harder, a child may feel some sensations far too strongly, or hardly notice them at all.
Signs to look for
Over-responsive (too much)
- covers ears at everyday sounds such as a mixer, pressure cooker or crowd
- dislikes certain clothes, labels, hair washing or nail cutting
- avoids messy play like sand, paint or glue
- eats only a few foods because of texture or smell
- gets upset in busy, bright or noisy places
Under-responsive or sensation-seeking (not enough)
- constantly spinning, jumping, climbing or crashing into furniture
- chews on clothes, toys or other objects
- does not seem to notice pain, cold or a dirty face
- seems to need lots of movement to stay alert
Many children show a mix of both. A few of these signs on their own are common; it matters when they get in the way of eating, sleeping, playing, learning or family life.
How to help at home
1. Notice patterns
For a week, write down what upsets your child and what calms them. Patterns show you which senses need support.
2. Prepare for difficult sensations
Warn before loud sounds (“I am going to turn on the blender”), offer ear defenders in noisy places and plan shopping at quiet times.
3. Create a calm corner
A small, quiet space with soft light, cushions and a favourite blanket gives your child a place to recover when things feel too much.
4. Build in movement
Children who seek movement do better after jumping, swinging, carrying heavy things or playing outside. Short movement breaks before sitting tasks help attention.
5. Offer deep pressure
Firm hugs, rolling in a blanket or heavy cushions on the lap calm many children. Always stop if your child does not like it.
6. Go slowly with new textures
Never force touch or food. Let your child explore with a spoon or a toy first, and praise small steps. Our guides on picky eating and a sensory-friendly home have more ideas.
How occupational therapy helps
An occupational therapist assesses how your child responds to each sense and plans play-based activities to help them feel calmer, more alert and more comfortable in daily life. Parents receive a simple daily plan (sometimes called a “sensory diet”) to use at home and school. For some children, hydrotherapy also helps with body awareness and calm.
If sensory difficulties come with late talking, little eye contact or repeated behaviours, a full child development and autism assessment gives the whole picture.
Support in Uttara, Dhaka
Wonder Kids Development Center in Sector 5, Uttara has calm, sensory-friendly therapy rooms. Call or WhatsApp +880 1757-707684 or book an appointment.
Have questions about your child?
Our team is happy to talk with you and help you plan the next steps.
