Understanding Sensory Processing Symptoms

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

If you’ve ever wondered why your child covers their ears at the sound of a vacuum, avoids certain clothes, or seems to crave movement all the time, you’re not alone. For me, I felt like I had pieces of a puzzle and on their own, they didn’t mean much but when I started putting them together, a bigger picture was being formed.

Sensory processing is how the brain receives and responds to input from our senses (touch, sound, taste, smell, sight, movement, and body awareness). For most people, the brain organizes these signals automatically. But for those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or sensory differences, the system can get a little tangled.

Some pieces of the puzzle we were collecting back when my 11 year old was 3:

  • Back in 2017, he wanted to be Woody for Halloween. The back of his costume closed with velcro. This was the first time we really noticed a piece of clothing bothering him. The sound, the feel of it, everything bothered him. To this day, he cuts all tags out of his clothing.
  • 2017 was also when his sister was born. If we were in the car and she started to cry, he would start to cry and beg us to help her and take him home. He had similar reactions to others crying, including friends.
  • He was visibly overwhelmed in crowds and even during a drive-thru Christmas light display.

I talked in an earlier blog on how I started collecting these pieces and googling, while also consulting with his speech therapist. The experience opened our eyes to what sensory processing really means and how it affects everyday life in ways most people don’t even notice.

At 11, he’s able to recognize when things are too much or too overwhelming for him. His sister has had her own sensory experiences. It’s been interesting to see the overlaps and the differences in what can affect them in their individual sensory processing.

Sensory processing symptoms can vary wildly, but they often fall into two main categories: sensory avoiding and sensory seeking.

Sensory Avoiding

Kids who are sensory avoiders might:

  • Cover their ears or run from loud noises (like hand dryers or fire alarms)
  • Refuse certain fabrics, tags, or seams in clothing
  • Dislike being touched or hugged unexpectedly
  • Avoid crowded or visually “busy” spaces
  • Prefer dim lights and quiet settings

They’re not being “difficult,” their brains are simply trying to protect them from sensory overload.

Sensory Seeking

On the flip side, sensory seekers might:

  • Constantly move, jump, spin, or crash into things
  • Touch everything within reach (including people!)
  • Make loud noises or seek vibration
  • Love messy play or crave strong tastes and textures
  • Find calm through deep pressure, like a weighted blanket or tight hug

Kids (and adults) can also be sensory seeking with certain things, but sensory avoiders with others.

Recognizing sensory processing symptoms isn’t about labeling a child, it’s about understanding them. When we start to see the “why” behind behaviors, everything changes. Instead of frustration, there’s compassion. Instead of punishment, there’s support.

Here are a few small ways to make a big difference:

  • Create a sensory-safe space or bucket at home. For example: a cozy corner with fidgets, soft lighting, and weighted items.
  • Build sensory breaks into the day: a swing in the yard, a walk after school, or quiet time with a favorite texture.
  • Work with an occupational therapist (OT) who specializes in sensory integration.
  • Follow your child’s lead. They’ll show you what they need, sometimes with words, sometimes with behavior.

Sensory processing isn’t about “fixing” our kids. It’s about understanding their world and helping them feel comfortable in it. Every sensory system is unique and that’s what makes our kids who they are.

If this topic speaks to you, you might also enjoy my post on my favorite sensory tools and items that have helped in our home.

You know yourself and your child best. Trust your gut, trust your “MomSense” because having the knowledge and the right tools can make all the difference.

Supporting Sensory Needs with Everyday Tools

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing Awareness, Sensory Resources1 Comment

With October being Sensory Processing Awareness Month, it’s a great time to talk about how our nervous systems process the world around us. Some children (and adults) seek more sensory input, while others avoid it and often, kids can show a mix of both depending on the situation.

Understanding the difference can make daily life feel smoother, and having the right tools on hand can transform overwhelm into comfort.

Sensory Seekers and Avoiders: Two Sides of the Same Coin

  • Sensory Seekers crave input. They might spin, jump, chew, or touch everything around them because their nervous system wants more.
  • Sensory Avoiders are easily overwhelmed by input. Tags in clothes, sudden noises, or bright lights can feel like “too much,” leading them to pull away, cover ears, or resist.

It’s important to remember that these aren’t opposites that cancel each other out. A child can be a seeker in one area (loving spinning and swinging) and an avoider in another (hating sticky or itchy textures).

Having the right resources at home, in the classroom, or even in the car can help kids feel grounded and safe. Some examples:

  • For sensory seekers: weighted balls, chewable jewelry, swings, trampolines, or fidget tools.
  • For sensory avoiders: soft tag-free clothing, noise-reducing headphones, blackout curtains, or cozy calming corners.
  • For both: books that explain sensory differences, flexible seating options, or tools that can be adapted depending on your child’s comfort level.

I’ve been keeping a list of items we have used (or similar). You can explore them all on my Favorite Things page. Whether you’re parenting a seeker, an avoider, or a little bit of both, this list is designed to help you find what works best for your family.

Sensory needs don’t disappear with age, they evolve. The more we learn, the better we can support our kids (and even ourselves) with patience, empathy, and the right resources. If you’re just beginning this journey, know you don’t have to figure it all out alone and simple tools can make a big difference.

Sensory Avoiders

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

Yesterday was all about Sensory Seekers but today will be all about Sensory Avoiders. While seekers crave more input, avoiders experience the opposite. Their nervous systems process input as overwhelming, and they often react by withdrawing, resisting, or shutting down.

Recognizing the different types of sensory avoiders can help parents, caregivers, and teachers provide the right environment and support.

Vestibular Avoiders

The vestibular system controls balance and movement. Vestibular avoiders often dislike swings, slides, or activities that make them feel off balance. They may resist climbing, running, or spinning. Supporting them means allowing slow, predictable movement at their own pace and never forcing participation.

Proprioceptive Avoiders

The proprioceptive system gives feedback from muscles and joints. While many children love deep pressure, proprioceptive avoiders may resist hugs, dislike tight clothing, or avoid heavy lifting. Respecting their boundaries and offering gentler forms of input can help them feel safe.

Tactile Avoiders

The tactile system processes touch. Tactile avoiders may dislike certain fabrics, resist messy play, or pull away from unexpected touch. Tags in shirts, scratchy clothing, or sticky textures can feel unbearable. Support strategies include soft clothing, gradual exposure, and allowing choice in textures.

Oral Avoiders

The oral sensory system processes input through the mouth. Oral avoiders may be picky eaters, avoiding foods with certain textures or strong flavors. They may gag easily or resist toothbrushing. Providing a variety of safe, preferred foods and slowly introducing new ones can reduce stress.

Auditory Avoiders

The auditory system interprets sound. Auditory avoiders may cover their ears at loud noises, dislike crowded environments, or struggle with sudden sounds like vacuums or alarms. Noise-canceling headphones, quiet spaces, and preparing them for upcoming sounds can make environments more manageable.

Visual Avoiders

The visual system processes light and movement. Visual avoiders may dislike bright lights, avoid crowded or cluttered spaces, or find fast-moving visuals overwhelming. Soft lighting, sunglasses, and calm visual environments are helpful supports.

Sensory avoiders aren’t being difficult or picky. Their nervous systems are sending danger signals in response to overwhelming input. By understanding their unique sensory needs, we can help them feel more comfortable and secure.

Awareness of sensory avoiders allows us to shift from frustration to compassion. Supporting them isn’t about pushing them into uncomfortable situations, it’s about respecting their boundaries and creating safe, supportive spaces where they can thrive.

Reminder: Sensory Processing Difficulties aren’t kid-specific. It’s not something that goes away with age. There are ways to learn how to manage and support the day-to-day challenges and there are many adults that need support as well.

Sensory Seekers

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

Let’s talk about sensory seekers. While some people are more sensitive and may avoid sensory input, sensory seekers are the opposite. Their nervous systems crave more input in order to feel calm and regulated. Understanding the different types of sensory seekers and the sensory systems involved can help us better support kids and adults who are wired this way.

Vestibular Seekers

The vestibular system is all about balance and movement. Vestibular seekers crave activities like spinning, swinging, jumping, or running. They’re often described as “on the go” and may have trouble sitting still. Safe outlets include trampolines, swings, or dance breaks throughout the day.

Proprioceptive Seekers

The proprioceptive system helps us sense our body position through muscles and joints. Proprioceptive seekers love heavy work and deep pressure. You might see them crashing into furniture, giving tight hugs, or lifting and carrying heavy objects. Support them with weighted blankets, obstacle courses, or tasks like pushing a laundry basket or carrying groceries.

Tactile Seekers

The tactile system processes touch through the skin. Tactile seekers are drawn to textures and physical contact. They might touch everything around them, love messy play, or constantly seek hugs. Activities like sensory bins, playdough, water play, and textured fabrics can help meet their needs.

Oral Seekers

The oral sensory system processes input through the mouth. Oral seekers may chew on pencils, bite clothing, or prefer crunchy and chewy snacks. Chewable jewelry, straws, gum, and snack options like pretzels or apples are safe ways to provide oral input.

Auditory Seekers

The auditory system interprets sound. Auditory seekers often hum, tap, or make noises. They may love music, loud environments, or playing with instruments. Consider drumming, rhythm games, or music breaks to meet their sensory needs.

Visual Seekers

The visual system processes light and movement. Visual seekers are drawn to bright lights, colors, and moving objects. They may love light-up toys, spinning fans, or repeated video clips. Glow sticks, bubble tubes, and lava lamps are great tools for visual input.

Recognizing which sensory systems a child or adult seeks can help redirect behaviors into safe and supportive outlets. Instead of labeling them as restless or disruptive, we can see their actions as communication.

Supporting sensory seekers isn’t about stopping the need for input, it’s about understanding and meeting it in a way that helps them thrive.

Reminder: Sensory Processing Difficulties aren’t kid-specific. It’s not something that goes away with age. There are ways to learn how to manage and support the day-to-day challenges and there are many adults that need support as well.

How to Explain Sensory Processing to Friends, Family and Teachers

On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

One of the biggest challenges of parenting a child with sensory difficulties isn’t just managing the day-to-day, it’s helping the people around us understand what’s really going on.

Since October is Sensory Processing Awareness Month, it feels like the perfect time to talk about how we can explain sensory processing to the friends, family members, and teachers who love and support our kids.

Most people want to understand, but they don’t know how. Sensory processing can feel invisible from the outside. A meltdown over scratchy tags or a refusal to eat certain textures can be mistaken as “bad behavior” or “picky eating.” That’s where our voice matters.

Here are a few ways to explain it simply:

Use relatable examples.
“Have you ever been stuck in a room with a flickering light or heard nails on a chalkboard? Imagine if your brain felt like that several times a day. That’s what it can be like for my child.”

Keep it short and clear.
“Sensory processing is how the brain interprets information from the five senses. For some kids, it’s turned up too high, for others, it’s turned down too low.”

Share what helps.
“It’s not about fixing my child; it’s about supporting them. Things like headphones, weighted blankets, or breaks can make a huge difference.”

Lead with compassion.
Sensory needs aren’t “bad” or “wrong,” they’re just different.

The more we talk openly, the more the people around us begin to understand. And that understanding builds patience, inclusion, and empathy.

This Sensory Processing Awareness Month, I encourage you to share a piece of your child’s sensory story with someone new: a teacher, a grandparent, a friend. Every conversation plants a seed of awareness, and together, we can grow a more compassionate community for our kids.

One more note: Sensory Processing Difficulties aren’t kid-specific. It’s not something that goes away with age. There are ways to learn how to manage and support the day-to-day challenges and there are many adults that need support as well.

Do you have a way you’ve been able to explain sensory processing? Share it in the comments below or connect with me on Instagram!

    Sensory Processing Awareness Month | October 2025

    On By justmymomsenseIn Sensory Processing AwarenessLeave a comment

    October is Sensory Processing Awareness Month, and I couldn’t let the first day pass without taking a moment to share why this month is so close to my heart.

    If you’ve been following along with Just My MomSense, you already know that sensory processing plays a huge role in our family’s daily life. For us, it’s not just about quirky preferences or “picky” behaviors, it’s about how our children experience the world. A sound, a texture, or a room full of people can feel too much or not enough. What looks small on the outside can feel enormous on the inside.

    That’s why Sensory Processing Awareness Month is so important. It’s a time to pause, educate, and bring understanding to families, teachers, friends, and communities who might not fully see what’s happening behind the scenes. For those of us living this everyday, it’s a reminder that our kids are processing the world differently, and that deserves respect, patience, and support.

    This month, I’ll be sharing practical tools, calming strategies, and real-life stories from our sensory journey. My hope is that you feel less alone and more equipped, whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or someone who simply wants to better understand sensory needs.

    Let’s use this month to celebrate the uniqueness of our kids, raise awareness in our circles, and gently remind the world: sensory processing differences are real, valid, and worth honoring.

    Here’s to a month of awareness, compassion, and connection!

    Back to School and Back to the Podcast!

    On By justmymomsenseIn PodcastLeave a comment

    After a summer hiatus, Just My MomSense is back and I couldn’t be more excited!.

    If you’re new here, welcome! I’m Jen, a mom navigating the everyday ups and downs of parenting, sharing stories, resources, and encouragement along the way.

    This week’s episode is a solo one, where I’m catching you up on how summer went in our house, how we’re handling the big back-to-school transition, and what’s ahead for the podcast.

    🎧You can listen to the full episode, Summer Recap, Back to School and More Episodes Ahead, by clicking here or wherever you listen to podcasts.

    I’d love to hear from you too! How was your summer, and how is the back-to-school season going for your family? Share with me in the comments below or come connect on Instagram [@justmymomsense].

    You Don’t Have to Do the Whole School Year Today

    On By justmymomsenseIn Anxiety, schoolLeave a comment

    Last Tuesday was the first day of school in my area. We had an awesome summer full of fun, family, travel and friends! That would be a tough one to transition from normally, but this year both of my kids were going into new schools. If you’ve read this blog before, then you can probably assume that this caused plenty of anticipatory anxiety in my house.

    Last week, as we were navigating first-day jitters, endless forms, and figuring out new drop-off times, my husband and I reminded the kids (and ourselves):

    You don’t have to do the whole school year today. You only have to do today.

    It’s so easy to get caught up in the big picture:

    • The homework and projects that will eventually be assigned
    • The tests that will need to be studied for
    • The extracurricular activities and school events that fill the calendar

    But when we focus on everything all at once, it feels overwhelming before we even begin. That’s true for our kids, and it’s true for us as parents. We’ve been working on breaking it down into manageable pieces. Today we wake up, we eat breakfast, we get to school, we do our best. That’s it. Tomorrow we’ll do it again. One day at a time.

    As I write this, the Sunday Scaries are creeping in. If you deal with that too (as an adult or child), know that you’re not alone. Keep taking everything one day at a time. Look for the small victories, the things to celebrate and the mishaps to learn from.

    We don’t have to do all the days, we just have to do today.

    Navigating Autism, Motherhood, and Disney Magic with Joann Salas

    On By justmymomsenseIn PodcastLeave a comment

    ICYMI, On the most recent episode of the Just My MomSense Podcast, I was joined by Joann Salas. On her YouTube channel, Joann shares her journey as a wife and mom to twin boys, one of whom is autistic and nonverbal. She shares the ups and downs of their everyday life, offering a real look into parenting, autism, and managing a busy home.

    In this episode, we chat about:

    • The emotional side of receiving an Autism diagnosis
    • Finding joy in everyday routines and family travel
    • Why Disney parks are a source of comfort and connection for her family

    Listen to the full episode here.
    📺 Watch Joann’s videos: Joann Salas on YouTube
    📲 Follow Joann on Instagram: @lovealwaysjoann