An Introduction to Sensory Processing

Understanding Sensory Processing Skills

Sensory processing plays a major role in how we understand our environment and regulate our bodies and emotions. Sensory processing is the ability of the nervous system to receive, organize, and respond to information from our senses. These skills influence how we move, pay attention, manage emotions, and interact with others throughout the day.

Every person has eight sensory systems:

• Visual (sight)

• Auditory (hearing)

• Olfactory (smell)

• Gustatory (taste)

• Tactile (touch)

• Vestibular (balance and movement)

• Proprioception (body awareness and muscle/joint input)

• Interoception (awareness of internal body signals such as hunger, thirst, or heart rate)

  
  

Within each sensory system, sensory processing skills include sensory modulation and sensory discrimination.

Sensory modulation refers to how much sensory input a person needs to notice, respond to, or stay regulated. Some individuals need a lot of input before they react—for example, needing their name called multiple times before responding. Others are more sensitive and may react quickly or strongly to sensory input. These individuals might have big reactions to loud noises like car horns or vacuums, or feel uncomfortable when someone brushes against them in a crowded space.

Sensory discrimination refers to a person’s ability to identify and interpret specific details about sensory information. These skills help us understand what we are feeling, hearing, seeing, or tasting, and where that sensation is coming from. For example, sensory discrimination allows someone to tell the difference between the sound of a car passing by and a motorcycle, or to adjust the amount of force needed when writing with a pencil versus using chalk. When an individual has challenges with sensory discrimination, they may struggle to use the appropriate amount of force for tasks, appear clumsy, and have difficulty efficiently completing everyday activities.

Sensory Processing and Regulation

Sensory processing skills have a strong impact on a person’s ability to regulate their body, emotions, and attention. For example, some individuals need significant proprioceptive input, such as heavy work or deep pressure, to feel calm and organized. They may naturally seek out activities like lifting weights, playing sports, or (for children) rough-and-tumble play. When they don’t get this input regularly, they may struggle with body control, impulsivity, or using appropriate force during activities. Other individuals may be more sensitive to sensory input such as loud noises, bright lights, or busy environments. These sensitivities can make it difficult to stay calm, focused, or regulated in places like supermarkets, classrooms, or social gatherings.

Children who experience challenges with sensory processing may appear inattentive, fidgety, or emotionally reactive. These challenges can affect their participation in school, social interactions, and family outings, but with the right supports, children can build skills to better understand and manage their sensory needs.

Tips to Support Sensory Processing Skills

Increase awareness: Begin noticing how your body responds in different environments. Does your heart race in crowded places? Do you feel the urge to move away when someone stands too close? Awareness is the first step towards regulation.

Narrate what you observe: If you’re a parent or caregiver, gently describe what you notice in your child’s body or behavior. For example, “I notice you’re covering your ears, this place sounds loud.” This helps children build awareness and language around their sensory experiences.

Build a sensory toolbox: Identify tools or strategies that help you or your child feel calm and regulated. Can these be used or carried into challenging environments? Examples include a small fidget, movement breaks, water breaks, snacks, headphones, or taking quiet moments away from stimulation.

Create routines: Incorporating sensory-supportive activities into your daily routine can help maintain regulation throughout the day. For example, individuals who need more movement or heavy work may choose to start their day at the gym or build a midday walk into their schedule. Those who are easily distracted by background noise may benefit from setting up a workspace in a quiet space without the television or music on.