Some children, like those with autism or communication differences, may struggle with sensory sensitivities. This means they might:
- Find everyday places too noisy or busy
- Feel overwhelmed in crowded spaces
- Dislike certain clothes because of how they feel
How to Get Help
If you think your child has sensory sensitivities, you can:
- Talk to your local Healthy Family Team or the SENCO (special education needs coordinator) at school. They can give advice and support.
- Schools can ask specialist autism services within your child’s school for help. They might do a sensory profile to understand your child’s needs and suggest changes, like:
- A quiet area for lunchtimes
- Changes to school uniform rules
- Wearing ear defenders in noisy places
A diagnosis is not required to get the support for your child in their school/education setting.
Useful resources for sensory differences:
Royal College of Occupational Therapists provides a list of OT’s who are providing services - Join us | RCOT
Sensory Integration education. Provide training some free resources - Sensory Processing & Integration - Sensory Integration Education
All ages
The National Autistic Society a guide about sensory differences
For younger children
Book Recommendations
The Out-Of-Sync Child Has Fun: Activities for Kids with Sensory Processing Disorder - www.amazon.co.uk
Understanding your child’s sensory signals - www.amazon.co.uk/Understanding-Your-Childs-Sensory-Signals