Sensory Seeking vs. Sensory Avoiding In Children

Understand your child's sensory needs with our guide to sensory seeking vs. avoiding behaviors. Create a sensory diet for a happier child.

July 8, 2024

Sensory Seeking vs. Sensory Avoiding In Children

To better understand sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors in children, it is important to first grasp the concept of sensory processing. Sensory processing refers to how the nervous system receives and interprets sensory information from the environment. It plays a crucial role in a child's ability to interact and respond to their surroundings effectively.

What is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing involves the brain's ability to receive, organize, and make sense of the sensory information it receives through the five senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. It allows individuals to filter and prioritize sensory input, enabling them to engage in appropriate responses and behaviors.

For most individuals, sensory processing occurs seamlessly, allowing them to navigate the world without significant challenges. However, some children may experience difficulties in sensory processing, leading to atypical responses to sensory stimuli. This condition is known as sensory processing disorder (SPD), which can manifest in various ways and affect children differently.

The Role of Sensory Seeking and Sensory Avoiding

Sensory seeking and sensory avoiding are two common patterns of sensory processing that can be observed in children with sensory processing difficulties. These patterns represent different ways in which children may respond to sensory input.

Sensory Seeking refers to a tendency to actively seek out and engage with sensory stimuli. Children who display sensory seeking behaviors often crave sensory input and may actively engage in activities to fulfill those sensory needs. Sensory seeking behaviors can be observed across various sensory modalities, such as seeking tactile input by touching different textures or seeking vestibular input through activities like spinning.

Sensory Avoiding, on the other hand, refers to a tendency to avoid or be hypersensitive to certain sensory stimuli. Children who exhibit sensory avoiding behaviors may find certain sensory input overwhelming or uncomfortable, leading them to avoid or withdraw from those stimuli. For instance, a child may become distressed or cover their ears in response to loud noises or avoid certain textures in clothing.

Understanding the role of sensory seeking and sensory avoiding can help parents and caregivers identify and support children with sensory processing difficulties. By recognizing these patterns and their impact on a child's daily life, appropriate strategies and interventions can be implemented to promote their overall well-being. In the following sections, we will explore the characteristics and examples of sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors to provide a deeper understanding of these patterns.

Sensory Seeking

When it comes to sensory processing, some children exhibit sensory seeking behaviors. Sensory seekers actively seek out sensory input to fulfill their sensory needs. Understanding the characteristics of sensory seeking and recognizing the examples of sensory seeking behaviors can help parents better support their children.

Characteristics of Sensory Seeking

Children who are sensory seekers often display certain characteristics, which may include:

Seeking Out Stimulation: Sensory seekers actively look for sensory experiences and seek out opportunities for sensory input.
High Activity Level: They may have an abundance of energy and engage in physical activities to satisfy their sensory needs.
Craving Intense Sensations: Sensory seekers often seek out intense sensory input, such as deep pressure, fast movements, or strong flavors.
Difficulty Sitting Still: These children may have trouble staying seated or still for extended periods as they crave movement and sensory input.
Exploratory Behavior: Sensory seekers are often curious and exploratory, as they actively seek out new sensory experiences and stimuli.

Examples of Sensory Seeking Behaviors

Sensory seeking behaviors can manifest in various ways. Some common examples of sensory seeking behaviors in children include:

Crashing or Jumping: Children may enjoy jumping, crashing onto soft surfaces, or engaging in activities that provide deep pressure input.
Spinning or Twirling: Sensory seekers often enjoy spinning or twirling themselves around to experience the sensation of movement.
Chewing or Mouthing Objects: Some children may have a constant need to chew on objects or put things in their mouths to satisfy their oral sensory needs.
Seeking Vibrations: Sensory seekers may enjoy activities or toys that provide vibrations, such as vibrating massagers or vibrating toys.
Seeking Proprioceptive Input: Sensory seekers may engage in activities that provide deep pressure or joint compression, such as squeezing into tight spaces or engaging in rough play.

Recognizing these sensory seeking behaviors in your child is the first step towards understanding their sensory needs. If you suspect your child may have sensory processing difficulties, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or an occupational therapist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and offer guidance on supporting your child's sensory needs.

In the next section, we will explore sensory avoiding behaviors and how they differ from sensory seeking behaviors. Stay tuned to learn more about sensory avoiding and how it affects children.

Sensory Avoiding

Some children exhibit sensory avoiding behaviors, which means they actively try to avoid or minimize exposure to certain sensory stimuli that they find overwhelming or uncomfortable. Sensory avoiding behaviors can manifest differently in each child, but there are some common characteristics and examples to look out for.

Characteristics of Sensory Avoiding

Children who engage in sensory avoiding behaviors may display the following characteristics:

Hypersensitivity to certain sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, or certain textures.
An aversion to being touched or hugged.
Avoidance of crowded or busy environments.
Discomfort or distress when exposed to certain sensory experiences.
A preference for predictable and familiar routines.

It's important to note that not all children who exhibit sensory avoiding behaviors have a sensory processing disorder. However, these behaviors can be a helpful indicator for further evaluation if they persist and significantly impact the child's daily life.

Examples of Sensory Avoiding Behaviors

Children who engage in sensory avoiding behaviors may exhibit the following examples:

Covering their ears in response to loud noises, such as vacuum cleaners or fire alarms.
Avoiding certain foods with specific textures, colors, or smells.
Displaying reluctance or resistance to participate in activities that involve physical contact, such as hugs or handshakes.
Expressing discomfort or distress when exposed to bright lights, strong smells, or crowded spaces.
Seeking out quiet and isolated areas to retreat from overwhelming sensory stimuli.

Recognizing these behaviors and understanding your child's specific sensory sensitivities is crucial in providing appropriate support and accommodations. By identifying the triggers and developing strategies to manage sensory avoiding behaviors, you can help your child navigate their sensory experiences more comfortably.

Additionally, if you suspect your child may have a sensory processing disorder, it is recommended to consult with an occupational therapist who specializes in sensory integration.

Understanding the differences between sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors can provide valuable insights into your child's sensory processing patterns, allowing you to support their unique needs effectively.

Identifying Sensory Needs in Children

Understanding and identifying sensory needs in children is essential for providing appropriate support and intervention. Children may exhibit behaviors associated with sensory seeking or sensory avoiding. By recognizing these signs, parents can better understand their child's sensory processing and create a supportive environment.

Signs of Sensory Seeking

Children who engage in sensory seeking behaviors are constantly seeking sensory input to satisfy their sensory needs. Some common signs of sensory seeking in children include:

Craving intense sensory experiences such as spinning, jumping, or crashing into objects.
Seeking out tactile sensations by touching various textures or objects.
Enjoying activities that provide deep pressure, such as bear hugs or squeezing into tight spaces.
Being easily distracted or fidgety, as they may seek movement to stay alert.
Seeking out strong flavors or spicy foods during mealtimes.

Recognizing these signs of sensory seeking can help parents understand their child's need for sensory stimulation and provide appropriate outlets and sensory seeking activities to fulfill those needs.

Signs of Sensory Avoiding

On the other hand, some children may exhibit sensory avoiding behaviors, where they try to minimize or avoid certain sensory experiences that overwhelm them. Signs of sensory avoiding in children may include:

Becoming easily overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or strong smells.
Showing aversion to certain textures, such as refusing to wear certain fabrics or avoiding messy play.
Displaying sensitivity to temperature changes or discomfort with being touched.
Being selective about food choices and showing aversions to specific tastes or textures.
Avoiding crowded or busy environments due to sensory overload.

Recognizing these signs of sensory avoiding can help parents create a supportive environment by modifying the environment to minimize sensory triggers and provide comfort to their child.

Overlapping Behaviors

It's important to note that children may exhibit both sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors, as these behaviors can coexist. The sensory needs of each child can vary, and some behaviors may overlap or change over time. Each child's sensory profile is unique, and understanding their individual sensory preferences and sensitivities is crucial for effective support.

If parents observe persistent and significant sensory seeking or sensory avoiding behaviors that interfere with their child's daily life, it may be beneficial to seek professional guidance from an occupational therapist. These professionals can provide a comprehensive assessment and develop individualized strategies through sensory integration therapy to help children manage their sensory needs.

By recognizing the signs of sensory seeking and sensory avoiding in children, parents can better understand their child's sensory processing and provide the necessary support and strategies to promote their well-being and development.

Strategies for Supporting Children with Sensory Needs

When it comes to supporting children with sensory needs, there are various strategies that can make a positive impact on their daily lives. These strategies aim to provide a supportive environment that helps children manage their sensory seeking or sensory avoiding behaviors effectively. Here are three key strategies that can be beneficial:

Sensory Diet

A sensory diet refers to a personalized plan of activities and strategies that help regulate sensory input for children. It involves providing a balanced mix of sensory experiences throughout the day to meet the child's sensory needs. The sensory diet can include both sensory seeking and sensory avoiding activities, depending on the child's specific sensory profile.

By incorporating sensory activities into a child's daily routine, parents and caregivers can provide the sensory input necessary for the child to self-regulate their sensory system. Examples of sensory diet activities include deep pressure activities (e.g., weighted blankets), movement activities (e.g., swinging), and tactile activities (e.g., playing with textured materials).

Environmental Modifications

Modifying the child's environment can also play a significant role in supporting their sensory needs. Creating a sensory-friendly environment involves making adjustments to reduce sensory overload or provide additional sensory input based on the child's needs. This can include changes to lighting, sound levels, and the overall layout of the environment.

For children who are sensory seeking, providing sensory-rich experiences can be helpful. This may involve incorporating sensory toys, fidget tools, or creating sensory corners where the child can engage in activities that meet their sensory needs. On the other hand, children who are sensory avoiding may benefit from minimizing sensory distractions, such as reducing background noise or using visual aids to organize their environment.

Sensory Integration Therapy

Sensory integration therapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on improving a child's ability to process and respond to sensory information. This therapy is typically conducted by occupational therapists who are trained in sensory integration techniques. The goal of sensory integration therapy is to help children develop better sensory processing skills and improve their overall functioning.

During sensory integration therapy sessions, therapists use various activities and exercises to provide controlled sensory input. These activities are designed to challenge and gradually expand the child's sensory processing abilities. The therapist may use swings, therapeutic brushes, and other equipment to stimulate specific sensory systems. The therapy sessions are tailored to address the child's individual sensory needs and can be a valuable tool in supporting their development.

By implementing these strategies, parents and caregivers can provide the necessary support to help children with sensory needs thrive. It's important to remember that each child is unique, and what works for one child may not work for another. Seeking guidance from professionals, such as occupational therapists experienced in sensory processing disorder in children, can provide valuable insights and individualized support. If you believe your child may benefit from sensory integration therapy or other interventions, consider consulting an occupational therapist who can help guide you on the best course of action.

Seeking Professional Guidance

While understanding sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors in children is crucial, seeking professional guidance can provide valuable support and guidance for both parents and children. Occupational therapists specialize in sensory processing and can help identify and address sensory needs in children. Here are two essential aspects to consider when seeking professional guidance.

When to Consult an Occupational Therapist

If you notice persistent or significant sensory seeking or sensory avoiding behaviors in your child that impact their daily activities, it may be beneficial to consult an occupational therapist. Occupational therapists are trained to assess and address sensory processing challenges in children. They can conduct thorough evaluations to determine if your child has sensory processing difficulties and provide appropriate strategies and interventions.

Some signs that may indicate the need for an occupational therapy evaluation include:

Intense reactions to sensory stimuli (e.g., covering ears, avoiding certain textures)
Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
Challenges with self-regulation and emotional control
Avoidance or withdrawal from sensory-rich environments
Sensory seeking behaviors that interfere with daily functioning

By seeking an evaluation from an occupational therapist, you can gain insights into your child's sensory needs and receive tailored recommendations to support their development and well-being.

Seeking Individualized Support for Your Child

Every child is unique, and their sensory needs may vary. Seeking individualized support from an occupational therapist can make a significant difference in helping your child thrive. Occupational therapists can create customized intervention plans, often referred to as sensory diets, to address sensory challenges.

Sensory diets consist of a personalized set of sensory activities and strategies that aim to meet your child's sensory needs. These activities can help regulate sensory input, promote self-regulation, and enhance overall functioning. Occupational therapists can guide you in implementing sensory diets and provide resources and strategies to incorporate sensory activities into your child's daily routine.

In addition to sensory diets, occupational therapists may also recommend environmental modifications to create a sensory-friendly environment at home, school, or other settings. These modifications can include adjusting lighting, sound levels, and seating arrangements to help your child better manage sensory input.

Remember, seeking professional guidance from an occupational therapist can provide valuable support and expertise in understanding and addressing sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors in children. They can help you navigate sensory challenges and empower your child to thrive in their daily activities.

FAQs

Can a child be both a sensory seeker and a sensory avoider?

Yes, it is possible for a child to exhibit both sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviors. For example, a child may seek out deep pressure input (a sensory seeking behavior) but become overwhelmed by loud noises (a sensory avoiding behavior). It is important to observe your child's behavior in different environments and situations to identify their unique sensory needs.

What are some signs that my child may have sensory processing difficulties?

Some signs that your child may have sensory processing difficulties include being easily overwhelmed by certain textures, sounds, or movements; having difficulty with transitions or changes in routine; being overly sensitive or under-responsive to stimuli; or exhibiting challenging behaviors when overstimulated or understimulated.

How can I find resources to support my child's sensory needs?

There are many resources available to support children with sensory processing difficulties, including occupational therapists who specialize in sensory integration therapy, online support groups for parents of children with sensory needs, and books and articles written by experts in the field. It is also important to communicate with your child's healthcare provider and educational team about your concerns and questions regarding their sensory needs.

Summary

Understanding the difference between sensory seeking and sensory avoiding in children can be challenging, but it is an important step in supporting your child's sensory needs. Whether your child is a sensory seeker or a sensory avoider, there are steps you can take to help them feel regulated and engaged with their environment. By creating a personalized sensory diet and communicating with your child's teachers and caregivers, you can provide the support your child needs to thrive.