Hyposensitive- How to help a sensory seeking child .
The sensory seeker ( hyposensitive child ) refers to a person who craves lots of sensory stimulation. They are undersensitive! Meaning their senses take in too little sensory information from their surrounding environment.
People with hyposensitivity (sensory seekers) may also have difficulty recognizing sensations like hunger , illness or pain .
How do you recognize hyposensitivity ( the sensory seeker) ?
The sensory seeker will often appear clumsy, they may lick non food items, turn volume up to the loudest level on a device, and spin in circles with out getting dizzy.
So what can be done to improve hyposensitivity???
Sensory intergration therapy helps children/kids adjust sensory regulation through movement. The therapist uses specific sensory equipment to work with those that have sensory issues. Sensory tools used in therapy include some of the following.
1. Weighted blankets , lap pads or weighted vests
2. Supersized pillows or crash pads
3. Small trampolines
4. Specific types of swings
5. Large yoga balls
There are also tools and strategies that can be used that do not involve specific equipment. These things can be done at home or school.
1. Provide visual support for those who have difficulty processing spoken information
2. Offer fidget toys such as pop-its, chewies,
3. Use foods that have a strong smell, taste and different textures
4. Provide sensory bins filled with rice, hide small age appropriate items to be found when digging in the sensory bins
5. Encourage finger painting and use kinetic sand
6. Arrange furniture to provide open space add protective pads if safety is a concern
All of the above tools ,activities and strategies will help sensory seekers.
There are some simple things that can be done at home to help with sensory regulation. They include hugging a large yoga ball, using a beach towel or blanket to wrap and roll a child from shoulders to feet and then quickly unroll them.
My daughter has hyposensitivity issues, and it effects several of her senses. We have used many of the suggestions that are in this entry. I have seen improvements in her vestibular and proprioceptive senses. She spins less and has better balance.I have also seen improvement in her tactile hyposensitivity. She no longer chews on her shirt collar or her sleeves. She is more confident when doing physical activity and her fine motor skills have improved.
We still have a way to go , but I am grateful for the progress that has been made. Sometimes the path to improved is uncomfortable!
As her mother it's my responsibility to prepare her for adulthood, and that won't always be easy. However, it will be worth it as I know she will do something great to make the world a better place .
Stay tuned the next few entries will look at HYPERSENSITIVITY . Also known as sensory over responsivity!