What is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing describes how the brain receives, interprets, and responds to the world around us. We take in information from 8 senses — touch, taste, smell, sight, sound, movement (vestibular), body awareness (proprioception), internal signals (interoception), and temperature/pain — and use this information to feel safe, calm, and organized.

When a child has difficulty processing sensory information, even everyday experiences can feel overwhelming, confusing, or hard to navigate.

Does your child struggle with any of the following?

• Difficulty calming their body or emotions

• Sensitivity to noise, light, textures, clothing, or touch

• Avoiding messy play (paint, sand, food textures)

• Seeking movement (spinning, crashing, jumping)

• Constantly chewing or mouthing objects

• Difficulty paying attention

• Easily overwhelmed in busy settings

• Difficulty following directions

How OTs Help

Our Occupational Therapists complete a comprehensive sensory assessment, including observation, parent interviews, and standardized tools (when appropriate).

During therapy, we may:

• Trial sensory tools and regulation strategies

• Build a personalized sensory diet

• Teach your child how to identify when they need calming or alerting input

• Use programs like Zones of Regulation

• Support clothing, grooming, feeding, and daily routines

• Coach parents and educators to understand and support sensory needs

Education is a major part of our work — helping your child and their team understand why behaviors occur and how to support regulation in real-life situations.