(Including: understanding sensory processing in children and, offering a comprehensive sensory guide for parents)
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Have you ever wondered how your child experiences the world around them? It might surprise you to learn that children do this through more than just the commonly known five senses—sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. There are also three additional senses that play a critical role in their growth and how they interact with their environment. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into all eight senses, their roles, and their impact on children’s sensory processing.
Our mission has always been to provide parents with resources that support their child’s growth at home, in school, and throughout the community. We’ve seen firsthand the power of understanding these senses and how life-changing it can be for children and their families.
Recognizing Early Signs of Sensory Processing Challenges in Infancy
Early signs of sensory processing challenges can start appearing in infancy. Parents may notice that their baby seems unusually fussy with certain fabrics, reacts intensely to loud noises, or dislikes being touched. Identifying these behaviors early on can help parents support their child’s sensory needs as they grow.
The 8 Senses Explained
1. Sight (Vision)
Vision is perhaps the most easily understood of the senses, as it’s the way children perceive and interpret their environment through their eyes. But did you know that vision isn’t just about clarity? It also involves visual perception—recognizing colors, shapes, depth, and even tracking movement. This ability forms the foundation for everything from recognizing faces to learning to read.
For children with sensory processing difficulties, visual information can sometimes feel overwhelming. Bright lights, rapidly changing scenes, or too many visual details can lead to sensory overload symptoms in children. We worked with a young client named Jack who found crowded classrooms to be too visually chaotic. To help, we created a visually calm space at home with fewer distractions, creating a sensory-friendly learning space that allowed him to focus more comfortably.
2. Hearing (Auditory)
Hearing, or auditory processing, goes beyond simply detecting sound. It includes the ability to understand speech, differentiate background noise from important sounds, and respond appropriately. For children, understanding the nuances of sound can mean distinguishing a teacher’s instructions amid the noise of a bustling classroom or noticing the tone of a parent’s voice to interpret emotions.
Some children may experience auditory hypersensitivity—the sudden honking of a car horn, loud appliances, or even certain tones might be startling. For example, some children become visibly distressed at the sound of blenders. Noise-canceling headphones can be used during loud activities and maintaining a predictable routine can help ease stressors. These noise sensitivity solutions for children can provide immense comfort and make their environments more manageable.
3. Touch (Tactile)
The sense of touch is one of the first ways infants explore the world. This tactile sense provides essential feedback about temperature, texture, and pressure. Whether a child is holding a stuffed animal, feeling the warmth of a parent’s embrace, or stepping barefoot on grass, touch helps them make sense of their surroundings.
For some children, however, certain textures may be too intense or even painful—this is known as tactile defensiveness in children. Tags on clothing, certain fabrics, or sticky substances could trigger discomfort. We helped a young client named Ava who detested the tags in her clothes. We found that removing those tags and allowing her to wear softer fabrics made a world of difference for her comfort. Managing touch sensitivities in kids often requires small adjustments like these, such as finding clothing without tags, using soft bedding, or even introducing textures gradually.
4. Taste (Gustatory)
Taste is an incredibly diverse and personal sense. For children, taste can be a source of joy or discomfort. Many parents experience the frustration of dealing with a picky eater, and sensory processing can often be at the heart of it. Some children are extremely sensitive to certain flavors or textures and may have a limited range of foods they are willing to eat.
Introducing new tastes gradually, offering different textures, and allowing your child to explore food without pressure—like letting them touch, smell, and examine foods before eating—can help broaden their gustatory experiences. These little explorations can eventually lead to big steps towards enjoying new foods, especially for children with sensory food aversions in toddlers. One of our clients, Ben, struggled with certain food textures. Gradual exposure to new foods for sensory processing issues, such as dipping a finger into new purees or smelling a new dish before tasting, made mealtimes less daunting and more enjoyable.
5. Smell (Olfactory)
Smell and taste work closely together. The olfactory sense has the power to trigger memories, emotions, and appetites. For some children, certain smells might be comforting, while others can be overwhelming or even nauseating. This is known as olfactory sensitivities in children. The scent of a particular food, cleaning product, or perfume can trigger strong reactions.
One parent we worked with shared how her child, Sophie, would become visibly upset by the smell of certain cleaning products. This olfactory sensitivity triggered emotional responses that made daily cleaning routines challenging. Managing strong smell reactions in kids can be as simple as switching to fragrance-free alternatives, which makes a dramatic difference, helping create a calm, welcoming environment at home.
6. Vestibular Sense (Balance and Movement)
The vestibular sense is one of the three “hidden” senses that many people don’t immediately think of. It involves balance and spatial orientation, allowing children to understand where their bodies are in relation to gravity. Activities like swinging, spinning, or even just walking in a straight line depend on a well-developed vestibular sense. Vestibular activities for children, such as spinning on a swivel chair or playing on a swing set, are crucial for developing these skills.
Children who struggle with their vestibular sense might have trouble sitting still, balancing, or might seek excessive movement like jumping or spinning. We’ve seen kids like Oliver who seemed like they were constantly “on the go.” Activities that gently challenge balance, like rocking on a balance board or walking along a taped line, are effective ways to improve balance in sensory-sensitive kids and help them become more aware and in control of their movements.
7. Proprioception (External Body Awareness)
Proprioception, the 7th sense, provides information from muscles and joints about body position. This sense tells a child where their limbs are without having to look. It’s why they can climb stairs without watching their feet or why they can clap their hands with their eyes closed.
Children with proprioceptive difficulties might be either clumsy, often bumping into things, or they might be rough, not realizing their own strength. A young boy we worked with loved pushing heavy objects around—this was his way of seeking out sensory input. We encouraged proprioceptive activities for kids like carrying weighted items, kneading dough, or pushing heavy objects to give him the feedback his body craved. Body awareness exercises for children, such as yoga poses, crawling through tunnels, or even playing tug-of-war, can also help improve their proprioceptive skills and strengthen their understanding of where their body is in space.
8. Interoception (Internal Body Awareness)
Interoception, often called the “eighth sense,” involves the awareness of internal sensations within the body—such as hunger, thirst, needing to use the bathroom, fatigue, or changes in temperature. This sense is vital because it helps children recognize and understand internal cues, allowing them to regulate their emotions and meet their physical needs effectively.
For many children, understanding these internal signals can be challenging. They may not notice when they are thirsty or when they need a break, which can lead to discomfort or emotional dysregulation. For example, we worked with a young girl named Mia who frequently became irritable because she struggled to recognize when she was thirsty or tired. By using simple activities like mindfulness exercises and body scanning techniques, Mia gradually learned to pay more attention to her body’s signals.
Supporting a child’s interoception can involve several strategies:
- Mindfulness Practices: Activities like deep breathing or body scanning exercises can help children notice physical sensations.
- Regular Check-Ins: Encourage children to pause and assess their body by asking questions like, “How does my stomach feel?” or “Do I feel thirsty?”
- Visual Reminders: Use visual cues or reminders to help children remember to drink water, use the bathroom, or take breaks. These small prompts can make a big difference in helping them understand and respond to their body’s needs.
By fostering interoception, children can become more aware of their internal experiences, leading to better self-regulation and an increased sense of comfort throughout their daily activities.
Sensory Processing and Challenges in Children
Some children have sensory processing challenges that impact how they interpret and respond to sensory information. These challenges can manifest in a variety of ways—some children may be overstimulated by sensory input, while others may seek out more intense sensory experiences.
If your child seems easily overwhelmed, dislikes certain textures, or frequently seeks out movement, they may benefit from a more focused approach to sensory activities. Sensory processing support strategies, such as sensory play, consistent routines, and working with a pediatric occupational therapist, can help them learn to better regulate their responses. Helping children with sensory regulation is key to their comfort and overall well-being.
Read about 10 Fun Sensory Play Activities you can do at home with your child.
Home Adaptations for Sensory Needs
Creating a sensory-friendly environment at home can make a significant difference for children with sensory processing challenges. Consider using blackout curtains to reduce visual stimuli for children who are sensitive to light or setting up a quiet corner with cushions and soft materials for children who are easily overwhelmed by noise. Simple adjustments, like using unscented cleaning products or offering textured items, can help create a comforting environment that meets their sensory needs.
Practical Strategies for Parents
- Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment: Understanding your child’s specific sensory sensitivities is key. Creating quiet spaces with soothing colors and minimal clutter can help ease sensory overload.
- Use Sensory Play to Build Comfort: Sensory play activities, like kinetic sand, water beads, or slime, let children explore different textures in a controlled, safe environment. Gradually introducing these activities helps build comfort over time.
- Identify Your Child’s Sensory Preferences: Pay attention to what your child loves or dislikes—do they love swinging? Do they avoid noisy places? Understanding their preferences allows you to create experiences that are both enjoyable and helpful in expanding their comfort zone.
- Consider Occupational Therapy: If you notice that your child constantly struggles with sensory input, consulting with an occupational therapist can be invaluable. Therapists often use sensory integration techniques to help children learn to process and respond to sensory information more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How do I create a sensory-friendly space for my child at school?
Creating a sensory-friendly space at school can be achieved by collaborating with teachers to designate a quiet corner or an area with calming items like noise-canceling headphones, soft cushions, or fidget tools. This space can serve as a retreat for your child when they feel overwhelmed, helping them self-regulate and return to class activities more focused and calm.
- What are effective sensory activities for children with sensory processing disorder?
Effective sensory activities include using playdough for tactile stimulation, swinging for vestibular input, and weighted blankets for proprioceptive feedback. These activities help children with sensory processing disorder regulate their sensory input in a structured way, improving their comfort and focus.
- What are the seven senses, and why are they important?
The seven senses include sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell, vestibular (balance and movement), and proprioception (body awareness). These senses are crucial because they help children understand and interact with the world around them. A balanced sensory system allows children to navigate their environments effectively, which supports their development in areas such as learning, socializing, and motor skills.
- How can I tell if my child has sensory processing issues?
Signs of sensory processing issues can include being overly sensitive to light, noise, or textures, frequently seeking movement, or struggling with coordination. If your child has difficulty responding appropriately to sensory experiences, they may benefit from an evaluation by an occupational therapist, who can help determine if sensory processing challenges are present.
- What are some simple sensory activities I can do at home?
Simple activities like playing with playdough, swinging at the playground, or letting your child walk barefoot on different surfaces can be incredibly helpful. These activities engage various senses, providing the input your child needs to feel comfortable and regulated. Experimenting with these activities can help you determine what sensory inputs work best for your child.
Bringing it All Together: Helping Your Child Thrive
The seven senses are vital components in how children experience the world. From understanding where their body is in space to responding to the taste and smell of a new food, these senses work together to shape their daily experiences. As a parent, understanding how these senses impact your child can turn everyday activities into opportunities for growth and development.
I’ve spent years working alongside families, helping them understand their child’s unique sensory needs. This journey isn’t always straightforward, and each child is wonderfully different—some need more sensory input, while others need less. Your love, patience, and support are the foundation that helps them grow. Whether it’s a warm hug, a peaceful room, or a fun game in the park, the right sensory support can make all the difference.
Remember, it’s not about perfection but about progress. By embracing your child’s individuality and understanding their sensory needs, you’re laying the groundwork for them to thrive. If you need more assistance or guidance, consider reaching out to professionals like pediatric occupational therapists who can offer support tailored to your child’s unique journey. Together, we can help them grow, learn, and discover the joy of new experiences.
Links and Resources
- Understanding the Sensory System | NAPA Center: https://napacenter.org/sensory-system
- Developing Your Child’s 7 Senses with Sensory Integration | Brain Clinic: https://brain.com.sg/developing-your-childs-7-senses-with-sensory-integration
- The Seven Senses: What You Should Know as Your Child Develops | Edushape: https://www.edushape.com/blogs/sensory-blog/the-seven-senses-what-you-should-know-as-your-child-develops
- The 7 Senses: Supporting Your Child’s Sensory Development | MSU Extension: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_7_senses_supporting_your_childs_sensory_development
- The 7 Senses Explained | Comfa: https://www.comfa.co.uk/news/7-senses/
- The Seven Senses Overview | Nevada Autism Center: https://nevadaautism.com/the-seven-senses/
