Early Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder in Your Child – and What You Can Do To Help

As parents, we know our children better than anyone. We notice the tiny changes in their behaviour, the subtle struggles that others might miss, and the moments when something just doesn’t feel quite right.  If you’ve found yourself wondering whether your child might be struggling with sensory processing, you’re not alone - and rest assured, you're not imagining things.

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is still not widely understood, especially here in the UK, but it’s very real. For many of us, recognising the early signs can feel confusing and even overwhelming. This post is here to gently guide you through those early red flags and, more importantly, to remind you that support is out there.  You are not alone on this journey.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is when the brain has difficulty receiving, interpreting, or responding to sensory information. That could include input from any of the senses: sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, balance (vestibular), and body awareness (proprioception). 

Children with SPD may be over-responsive (hypersensitive) in any, or all, of those sensory areas, under-responsive (hyposensitive), or often a combination of both.

SPD can exist on its own, but is also commonly seen in children with autism, ADHD, or developmental delays.  It can also overlap in children who have allergies or intolerances. However, even without a formal diagnosis, SPD is something that can deeply affect a child’s everyday life - and yours too.

Early Signs of Sensory Processing Difficulties

Every child is different, but here are some of the most common early signs that your child may be struggling with sensory processing:

1. Oversensitivity to Touch, Noise, or Textures

• Reacts strongly to loud noises like hand dryers, vacuum cleaners, or sirens.

• Refuses to wear certain clothes (especially those with seams, tags, or made with a particular fabric).

• Gets distressed by having hair washed, brushed, or nails clipped.

• Avoids messy play like sand, finger paint, or glue.

2. Under-responsiveness to Sensory Input

• Doesn’t notice when hands or face are messy.

• Doesn’t respond to name being called, especially in noisy environments.

• Seems unaware of pain, temperature, or bumps/falls.

• Constantly seeking physical input (jumping, crashing into things, spinning).

3. Movement and Balance Difficulties

• Delays in crawling, walking, or climbing stairs.

• Appears clumsy, bumps into walls or doorframes, drops things, or trips frequently.

• Difficulty sitting still or staying upright in a chair.

4. Feeding Challenges

• Picky eating that goes beyond typical fussiness - avoids whole textures or food groups, or limits to just one or two ‘safe’ foods

• Gagging or vomiting with new foods.

• Prefers very strong flavours or very bland foods only.

5. Emotional and Behavioural Signs

• Meltdowns triggered by small sensory changes (e.g., sudden noises, clothing changes).

• Difficulty with transitions or new environments.

• Appears anxious in crowded places like supermarkets or playgroups.

• Avoids play with other children or becomes overwhelmed easily.

6. Sleep Difficulties

• Struggles to settle at bedtime or stay asleep.

• Needs a very specific sleep routine, bedding, or environment.

• Wakes easily to noise or sensory changes.

Trust Your Gut

If you’re reading this and recognising your child in these descriptions, you may be sensing anxiety, I want you to pause and take a deep breath. There is nothing “wrong” with your child.  Their brain is simply processing the world differently - and that world can be incredibly loud, bright, itchy, and overwhelming for them.

One of the hardest things as a parent of a child with sensory issues is feeling dismissed. You may have already been told:

• “They’ll grow out of it.”

• “All kids have tantrums.”

• “You’re overthinking it.”

• “It’s a boy thing” (or girl)

• “We didn’t get away with being fussy in my day”

But please know: your concerns are valid. You know your child best. And noticing early signs of SPD is not about labelling - it’s about understanding. Understanding means you can help them to thrive, not just to cope.

What to Do Next

If you suspect your child may be experiencing sensory processing difficulties, here are steps you can take in the UK to find support:

1. Keep a Sensory Diary

Begin tracking what you’re noticing. Note the triggers (e.g. loud noises, certain textures), the reactions, and what helps your child recover. This will be incredibly useful when speaking with professionals.

2. Speak to Your GP or Health Visitor

Ask for a referral to an Occupational Therapist (OT) - they are the specialists who assess and support children with sensory integration difficulties. In some areas, referrals go through Children’s Community Health Services or Paediatricians, so be persistent if needed, but start with your GP or school SENCO.

3. Seek a Private OT (if accessible)

NHS wait times can be long, and unfortunately, SPD is not always recognised as a standalone condition within some NHS trusts. Many parents opt for a private OT assessment, especially with those therapists trained in Sensory Integration Therapy. Look for therapists registered with RCOT or SI Network UK.

4. Look into an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)

If your child’s sensory needs are affecting their access to education, you may be able to apply for an EHCP. This can lead to additional support in nursery or school, such as sensory breaks or specialised equipment.

5. Connect with Supportive Communities

Being in touch with other parents who “get it” can be a lifeline. In the UK, great places to start include:

• Sensory Integration Education (sensoryintegration.org.uk)

• The National Autistic Society (even if your child isn’t autistic)

• Local SENDIASS services (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Services)

Facebook groups and local SEND groups can also be brilliant for sharing tips, getting recommendations for therapists, and simply feeling seen.

Gentle Sensory Supports at Home

You don’t have to wait for a diagnosis or referral to support your child. Here are some simple ways to begin helping them at home:

• Create a calm sensory space with soft lighting, weighted blankets, and soothing textures.

• Use noise-cancelling headphones in loud environments like shops or busy classrooms.

• Build in sensory breaks during the day: trampolining, swinging, playdough, or water play.

• Let them wear what feels comfortable - even if it’s the same top every day.

• Use visual routines and timers to help transitions feel safer and more predictable.

Most importantly, offer empathy. Instead of discipline for a meltdown, try connection: “That noise was too much, wasn’t it?” or “I see your body needs to move - let’s do some jumping jacks together.”

You Are Not Alone

Sensory processing challenges can be tough - not just for your child, but for you, too. It’s exhausting advocating, explaining, and trying to stay one step ahead of triggers. But I want you to hear this: you are doing an incredible job. Even reading this post means you are showing up, paying attention, and choosing to understand your child more deeply.

With time, the right support, and lots of love (which you already give in bucketloads), children with sensory differences can grow, adapt, and shine in their own wonderful ways. You’re not failing. You’re just navigating a different map - and your child is lucky to have you as their guide.

Sensory Sensitivities – use this sheet to support you in Health or Education appointments.

Tick any that apply to your child:

 Over-responsive Signs – Avoids Input

• Covers ears or gets distressed by loud sounds (e.g. hand dryers, sirens)

• Avoids certain textures in clothing (tags, seams, wool, socks)

• Refuses messy play (paint, glue, sand)

• Strong reaction to brushing hair, teeth, or cutting nails

• Becomes upset with bright lights or busy visual environments

• Distressed by certain smells or avoids strong scents

• Finds some foods “too slimy,” “too crunchy,” or “weird” in texture

 Under-responsive Signs – Seeks Extra Input

• Doesn’t react to loud noises or name being called

• Seems unaware of injuries, bumps, or temperature changes

• Crashes into furniture or people regularly

• Always jumping, running, spinning, or moving

• Puts non-food objects in mouth beyond toddler years

• Touches everything – seeks constant tactile input

Movement, Balance & Body Awareness

• Difficulty with walking, climbing, or jumping

• Appears clumsy or frequently bumps into objects

• Struggles to sit upright in a chair

• Fidgets constantly or has trouble staying still

• Trouble navigating steps, ladders, or uneven surfaces

Feeding Challenges

• Avoids foods of certain textures or temperatures

• Has a very limited range of accepted foods

• Gags or vomits easily during meals

• Over-chews, sucks, or mouths food long after chewing stage

Emotional & Behavioural Indicators

• Has frequent meltdowns, especially in noisy or busy places

• Difficulty with transitions (e.g., from play to meals, or home to nursery)

• Easily overwhelmed in groups or crowded spaces

• Avoids group play, prefers to be alone

• Highly anxious in unfamiliar settings

Sleep & Routine

• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

• Needs very specific sleep conditions (blanket, nightlight, routine)

• Wakes easily due to sensory disruptions (noise, temperature, light)

What to Do if You Recognise These Signs:

• Keep this checklist and share it with your GP, health visitor, or teacher

• Ask for a referral to a paediatric occupational therapist (especially one trained in Sensory Integration Therapy)

• Consider private OT assessment if NHS waitlists are long (look for RCOT or SI Network UK registration)

• Begin sensory-friendly routines at home (sensory breaks, calming spaces, noise management)

• Connect with UK support groups like:

• Sensory Integration Education: sensoryintegration.org.uk

• The National Autistic Society: autism.org.uk

• Local SENDIASS services

Remember:

Sensory differences are not bad behaviour. They are signs of a nervous system that processes the world differently.

With understanding, support, and compassion, your child can thrive.