Sensory processing issues are not a learning disability or official diagnosis
. But they can make it hard for children to succeed at school. For instance, oversensitive kids respond easily to sensory stimulation and can find it overwhelming.
Is sensory processing disorder a learning disorder?
While
sensory processing issues are not a learning disorder or official diagnosis
, they can make it hard for children to succeed at school. For instance, overly sensitive kids respond easily to sensory stimulation and can find it overwhelming.
What type of disability is sensory processing disorder?
Sensory Processing Disorder, or SPD, is
a complex neurological disorder affecting people of all ages
, but is typically diagnosed in early childhood. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers beneVits for people of all ages who are unable to work or participate in typical daily activities due to a disability.
Is SPD considered a disability?
While SPD may affect the child's auditory, visual, and motor skills, and the ability to process and sequence information, it is not, at present, specifically identified as
a qualifying disability
, making a child eligible for special education and related services.
Does sensory processing disorder qualify for IEP?
Even if your child does not meet criteria for an IEP under the IDEA, a sensory processing disorder
may qualify for protections under Section 504 as
a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities, including thinking, learning, working, etc.
Are you born with sensory processing disorder?
Doctors don
‘t know what causes SPD. They're exploring a genetic link, which means it could run in families. Some doctors believe there could be a link between autism and SPD. This could mean that adults who have autism could be more likely to have children who have SPD.
How does SPD affect learning?
How Does Sensory Processing Disorder Affect Learning? While sensory processing issues are not a learning disorder or official diagnosis, they can make it hard for children to succeed at school. A 2009 study found that
1 in every 6 children has sensory issues
that make it hard to learn and function in school.
How do I teach my child with SPD?
Provide a weighted lap pad , weighted vest, wiggle cushion, or other OT-approved sensory tools. Provide earplugs or noise-
muffling headphones
to help with noise sensitivity. Let the student use handheld fidgets; consider using a fidget contract .
Can a child with sensory processing disorder lead a normal life?
No, of course not
. Many factors go into both a child's and an adult's ability to improve and manage their SPD and the impact it has on their life. Some factors are obvious: a safe and supportive home life, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, early identification, and appropriate intervention.
How can I help my SPD?
Treating SPD with Therapy
SPD treatment often means working with
an occupational therapist on
activities that help retrain the senses. Many therapists use a sensory integration (OT-SI) approach that begins in a controlled, stimulating environment, and focuses on making SPD easier to manage in day-to-day life.
Does SPD cause speech delay?
It is no surprise that
children with SPD are often delayed in speech and/or language
. If a child is distracted by discomfort caused by their environment, or if they are busy seeking sensations that are not readily available, they are less likely to be able to attend to speech and language learning opportunities.
Can a toddler grow out of SPD?
However, unlike autism,
it is possible for the child to outgrow this disorder
. Let's examine the different possible cases for someone with SPD. In the less severe cases, a child may just have an immature sensory system. Thus, he or she will be able to outgrow it as they develop and their sensory system matures.
Why is SPD not diagnosed?
One of the reasons it's often “unheard of” is that
SPD is not included among the conditions spelled out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual
(DSM), the guide used by psychiatrists and many other clinicians—including pediatricians, psychologists, and social workers—in diagnosis.
How do schools deal with sensory overload?
- Practice deep-breathing exercises.
- Take a moment to be silent.
- Get up and stretch their bodies.
- Take a moment to sit still.
Is sensory processing disorder a form of autism?
Fact: Having sensory processing issues
isn't the same thing
as having autism spectrum disorder. But sensory challenges are often a key symptom of autism. There are overlapping symptoms between autism and learning and thinking differences, and some kids have both.
How can I help my child with sensory processing disorder at home?
- Make a safe space. Children who are easily overwhelmed need a place they can go to calm down and feel comfortable. …
- Put together a comfort kit. …
- Establish a signal. …
- Go slow. …
- Find alternatives.
