One fifth of the world’s children are sensitive. When we look at our sensory systems through this lens it makes a lot of sense that children get overwhelmed. Being a sensitive child is an intense way to move through life. It’s not easy being one and it’s not easy parenting one. Building a strong family support network and a parent support group is essential in helping you and your child manage their sensitivities. Here at connected childhood we will provide the network support you need through our masterclasses and our discovery programme.
Infants and toddlers have not yet developed language to make sense of their experiences. All of their memories are therefore sensory memories; and the baby operates mainly out of their brain stem – the bottom part of the brain which is responsible for basic functions such as heart rate temperature and behaviours which aim to keep them alive.
Memories before language are known as ‘implicit’ which means that while the child cannot later recall and talk about them, their body has stored the memories in its sensory systems.
Sensitive or traumatised children will often either over-respond or under-respond to incoming sensory information because their brain cannot find the ‘middle ground’ of working out what information is needed and what information means ‘danger’. They may also struggle to know how much force to press on things; find it hard to recognise the nature of textures (e.g. rough smooth heavy light) and they may struggle to find good balance and coordination.
In summary, many children with sensory problems cannot regulate their fear response or their body’s reaction to fear; nor can they regulate their primitive bodily functions like heart rate and temperature. Participating in a parenting support group can help parents learn techniques to aid their children in these areas.
SIGNS OF SENSORY PROBLEMS AT HOME
- Strong dislike for certain foods & textures
- Strong dislike for touching or overly tactile
- Sucking biting chewing to self-sooth
- Avoidance of routines such as tooth brushing
- Jumpy restless and alert even when safe
- Difficulty knowing when they are hot/cold; hungry/full or when they need the toilet
SIGNS OF SENSORY PROBLEMS AT SCHOOL
- Difficulty with concentration & attention
- Overwhelmed by noisy busy classrooms
- Difficulty throwing and catching a ball
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Poor handwriting and pencil grip
- Shutting down/zoning out frequently throughout the day
Get to know your child, what does your child need to thrive? Each child will want something different. We need to meet the child where they are, what does my child need in this moment? What are they communicating to me? Deeply listening to their words and their behaviours. This will give us vital information about what they need and will inform our parenting style.
There is an enormous ripple effect of a child who feels good. It is vital that your child feels good about who they are and that they know they are loved and accepted, just as they are.
If you have sensory concerns for your child an Occupational Therapist is a good place to start. Additionally, forming a family support network can provide ongoing assistance and resources.
Engaging in a parenting support group can provide valuable insights and shared experiences on managing sensory concerns.
Prepared to Parent
If you feel you need support on your parenting journey, our Discovery Programme may be what you need. For 6 weeks we will walk alongside you and together we find that ‘missing piece’ for you, that aha moment where you find connection in your role as a parent and then that beautiful new lens through which to see your child.
Beacon House have a comprehensive article on the relationship between attachment trauma and sensory processing difficulties which is available to download at: www.beaconhouse.org.uk/useful-resources/
