Too much sensory information

Is your child overly sensitive to noise or easily irritated by the fabric of clothes? They may be experiencing sensory overload.

Some children have trouble processing all the input their senses gather from the world around them. Sensory overload causes children to feel overwhelmed by information from their senses. Children with certain conditions, including autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, are more likely to develop sensory overload.

Kids going through sensory overload may feel an overwhelming or uncomfortable sensation. Increased sensitivity to light, textures, smells, sounds or even too much information from a teacher can trigger this feeling. When it happens, children may act out or not pay attention.

Soothing the senses

Your pediatrician may suggest ways to help your child adapt. For example, if your child is sensitive to the seam on their sock, switching to wearing shoes without socks might help.

An occupational therapist can identify the sensory information that overwhelms your child and teach them how to manage it. One way is to follow a sensory diet, which involves doing activities that calm the senses. These may include wearing a sensory vest. The vest puts soothing, hug-like pressure on the body.

Every child's needs are different. Find out what works best for your child and tailor solutions to support their unique journey.