From school age, we have all been taught the five primary senses: sight, sound, taste, smell and touch. However, there are eight senses that play a significant role in how we experience and navigate the world around us. The three additional senses are Vestibular (movement and balance), Proprioception (the body’s awareness of its position and movement) and Interoception (the body’s ability to sense internal feelings e.g. hunger).
Our sensory system, which comprises the brain and body, allows us to take in sensory information. Our brain then processes this information, allowing us to respond. When all the systems are working well, our state of arousal is balanced; we can focus, learn and engage with our environment. However, when sensory input is too much or too little, it can lead to what is referred to as sensory processing difficulties.
As parents, it’s common to feel challenged by our children’s behaviour, but it’s helpful to remember that behaviour is one way they communicate. When children have sensory difficulties, their behaviour often reflects what they are experiencing, for example, they might complain about certain clothing textures or seek extra sensory input through movement. By looking beneath the surface of these behaviours and asking what or why, we can begin to understand what our child is trying to tell us. For example, a meltdown or an attempt to avoid a situation may in fact be their way of saying they are overwhelmed or struggling to cope with the environment. When we get to understand what our children are telling us through their behaviours, it builds our confidence in supporting them.
Sensory processing difficulties are commonly observed in children with neurodivergent conditions, such as Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; (ADHD) and similar developmental differences. This can contribute to a stronger response (over-responsive) or to respond more slowly (under-responsive) to common sensory experiences. For example, an over-responsive child might cover their ears to block out loud noises or become upset by certain textures that others tolerate easily, while an under-responsive child may seek extra sensory input, or react slowly to sensations. Every child is different and has their own unique sensory preferences. Whether your child is over-responsive and/or under responsive to sensory input, the primary goal is to support them to get through their day and develop an appropriate response to the information they receive.
Supporting a child with sensory processing difficulties involves paying attention to their individual needs and adjusting their environments. This might look like minimising loud noises or bright lights, providing sensory tools, such as fidget toys or stress balls, increasing opportunities for movement, for example, rocking, Move’n’sit cushion and jumping/physical activities. It is important to observe and learn what types of input help your child feel comfortable and safe, as every child’s sensory preference is different.
The STAR method is particularly helpful as it helps us understand why a behaviour is happening by looking at the Setting, Trigger, Action and Response. For example, a child crying in a busy shop (setting) might be feeling overwhelmed by loud noises (trigger), the crying (action) is a sign of distress, and the parent response e.g. comforting the child or leaving the store (response) affects what happens next. For example, shopping during quieter times. This method can help us to work out what might be going on in any situation and recognise our child’s sensory preferences, thereby allowing us to provide the most appropriate support.
The Primary Care Child and Family Psychology Service are running a free online parenting workshop “Supporting Your Child’s Sensory Needs” on Wednesday 15th October 2025 from 10.00am – 11.30am. This workshop is most suitable for parents of children who are looking to support their child’s sensory needs. To attend, contact 087-3451489 to register with the Primary Care Psychology team. Registration closes on 13th October at 11.00am.
This article was written by Diekololaoluwa Amujo, Psychology Assistant with the HSE Primary Care Child and Family Service, Limerick. This service is a member of Parenting Limerick.
