Page 15 - S8 I feel comfortable Part 2 Sensory Needs
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Over sensitivity to sound can be a big Over-sensitivity to colour & light can also be When children have over responsiveness to
trigger for children. We can reduce a big issue for children with sensory tactile sensory stimuli, their brain can’t take
these difficulties in a variety of ways. processing difficulties, as well as individuals its focus from the sensation, leading to
▪ The key to supporting children is with ADHD/ASC. difficulty in maintaining attention, high
increasing their own awareness of the ▪ Teach children ‘light & colour awareness’ and anxiety and de-regulation.
impact of sound on their well-being. its impact on their levels of stimulation and ▪ Much of the time, this is going on sub-
▪ Teach children ‘sound awareness’ and its well-being. consciously, so the child isn’t fully aware of what
impact on their levels of stimulation and ▪ Ensure rooms are clutter-free and organised is causing the anxiety. With all of these physical
emotional well-being. with a place for everything. Ensure there are triggers, the first step is helping children to
▪ Trial different levels of sound and music spaces in rooms which are decorated in simple notice and develop awareness of body
and ask children to ‘feel’ its impact on neutral colours so colour is not overwhelming. sensations.
their bodies and feelings. ▪ In schools, create a school culture in which ▪ Teach children about sensory over and under
▪ Provide equipment for children who anyone can suggest blinds are shut. responsiveness of the skin.
appear to have over-responsiveness to ▪ When replacing lights, ensure dimmer switches ▪ Talk about tactile sensations and help children
sound. Let children choose and trial are installed. recognise the skin sensations they enjoy or don’t
different equipment so they feel in ▪ Where dimmers are not available, switch only enjoy.
control – e.g. some children feel too some lights on and give the child the choice of ▪ Provide lots of tactile activities for children to
conspicuous wearing ear defenders but where to sit. explore so they begin to develop better
may feel ok wearing ear buds (there are ▪ Ensure the opportunity for children to work and awareness. Help them cope with tactile
small, transparent versions on the play in areas which are shaded. sensations little by little and be in charge of
market: ▪ If you feel light sensitivity is an issue, request progress.
▪ Ensure noise reduction in rooms as much further assessment from the GP. ▪ For schools, ensure uniform policies
as possible. These needn’t be expensive: ▪ Special sunglasses to reduce light and glare are accommodate children with tactile sensory
use innovative, cost-effective strategies available which can make a big difference to processing difficulties.
such as halved tennis balls on chair legs. individuals with over-responsiveness to light. ▪ When children appear distracted or anxious,
check whether sensory overload is at play.
