Sensory, behavior, or both?!

As parents, we all want our children to be happy and healthy. However, sometimes it can be challenging to understand why they behave the way they do. Is it sensory-related, behavior-related, or both? It can be difficult to differentiate between the two, but it's essential to understand the difference to help our children navigate the world around them. Here's a guide to help you understand the difference between sensory and behavior issues in children.

Sensory Issues

Sensory processing issues refer to how the brain receives and interprets information from the senses. Sensory issues can affect how children react to their environment and can make it challenging for them to cope with everyday situations. Some signs of sensory issues include:

• Overreacting to certain sounds, textures, or smells

• Avoiding certain foods or refusing to wear certain clothes

• Being easily distracted or having trouble focusing

• Being clumsy or uncoordinated

• Seeking out sensory experiences, like spinning or jumping

• Behavioral Issues

Behavioral issues

Behavioral issues refer to how a child behaves in response to a situation. Behavioral issues can be a result of many different factors, including anxiety, stress, or lack of sleep. Some signs of behavioral issues include:

• Aggressive or defiant behavior

• Difficulty following directions or rules

• Tantrums or meltdowns

• Difficulty sleeping

• Poor social skills or lack of empathy

• Is it Sensory, Behavior, or Both?

It's important to understand that sensory and behavioral issues can be related. Sensory issues can lead to behavioral issues because children may not be able to cope with sensory information in a positive way. For example, a child who is sensitive to loud noises may become agitated and have a tantrum in response to a loud noise.

However, behavioral issues can also lead to sensory issues. A child who is anxious or stressed may become more sensitive to sensory information, making it challenging for them to cope with everyday situations.

So, how do you determine if it's sensory, behavior, or both? It's essential to observe your child's behavior and try to understand what triggers their reactions. You can also seek the help of us here at Extraordinary Kids Therapy to help to assess your child's sensory and behavioral needs.

In conclusion, it's crucial to understand the difference between sensory and behavior issues in children. While they may seem similar, they have different underlying causes and require different approaches to manage. By understanding the difference, you can better support your child's needs and help them to navigate the world around them.