Sensory Seeking Kids

When R was 2 we had him evaluated through our local AEA (area education agency) for some tendencies that have been linked to autism. After 6 months of services – by a phenomenal specialist! – she concluded that his behaviors were not autistic but showed he was needing more sensory stimulation.

Our specialist talked about two types of sensory processing issues: Sensory seeking - kids will try to get more proprioceptive input. They might give people tight hugs or crash into things to feel the physical contact and pressure. Sensory avoiding - kids will try to get away from those sensations. The other sense has to do with spatial orientation, or knowing where your body is “in space.” (from understood.gov). 

From this we determined that R's tendencies align more with sensory seeking. And although he still displays some of these tendencies, here are some of the things that have worked for us to get him his needed physical contact:

​1. Wrestling – throwing him on the couch, letting him climb on us or tickling are all things we still do when we see him needing a little extra stimulation.

2. Reading – we can usually tell when he is getting overwhelmed with his thoughts because he starts walking on his toes and moving his arms around. When that happens, one of the things I do is right away ask him to get a book. He loves picking them out and he plops down right next to me until the book is finished.

​3. Coloring - R LOVES to color. Ever since he was 2 coloring has been one of his favorite things and he is DANG good at it. Give the kid a detailed coloring page and he is typically set for about 30 minutes!

4. Go to the bathroom – the same tendencies he displays when he needs more stimulation are the same ones for when he has to go to the bathroom. A simple reminder/me saying, “I’m not asking, I’m telling” when he resists, usually helps calm him down.

5. Gymnastics – we start all of the kids in gymnastics at the age of 2. We know they may not stay with it but in the year before they are old enough for organized sports, gymnastics is a fantastic way to make sure they are getting in enough exercise or physical stimulation needed. It is also really easy to practice the basic floor skills at home.

6. The power of siblings – playing with others helps clear his mind and always seems to relax him. If they find a good rhythm between them and start to imaginative play, it helps him relax and also expands his imagination which is great while his brain is developing!
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It can be hard to seek help since it can feel like you are saying something is wrong with your child. Those feelings are completely understandable but finding help can provide a diagnosis or just reassurance that your concerns are being heard.

The thing I’ve learned: Don’t be afraid to talk to a doctor you trust about any concerns you have with your child’s development. Early intervention can be very beneficial!