Abby Barnes, M.S., CCC-SLP
Issues with sensory processing and emotional regulation are often related in children. Sensory processing disorder (SPD) affects how the nervous system receives and responds to sensory input. Emotional regulation involves learning to manage emotions and “big feelings” in an appropriate way. Occupational therapy can help support kids in both of these areas.
Key takeaways
Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a problem with how the nervous system receives and organizes sensory information.
Autistic children often have sensory processing issues however, every child with SPD is not autistic.
Emotional regulation involves learning to identify and handle emotions in an appropriate way. Kids with ADHD often struggle with emotional regulation.
Emotional regulation techniques can include identifying emotions, problem solving through a situation, or using sensory regulation to support the body.
Occupational therapy can address issues with sensory processing and emotional regulation and teach families how to support their child at home.
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Get startedWhat is sensory processing disorder?
Sensory processing disorder (SPD) refers to a problem with how the nervous system receives and responds to sensory input. Sensory input is information we take in from our senses, such as touch, movement, sound, sight, or smell.
There are a variety of symptoms of sensory processing disorder. Children may be over-responsive or under-responsive to sensory input.
Over-responsive (hypersensitive):
Easily overwhelmed by noise, textures, or lights
Avoids certain textures, such as with clothing or foods
Has trouble in loud or busy environments, such as a busy classroom
Under-responsive (hyposensitive):
Seems somewhat unaware of sensory input, like loud noises or other noticeable things in their environment
Seeks intense movement or pressure, such as by running, jumping, or seeking squeezes like big hugs or tackling during play
Has low awareness of pain or body positioning. This can come across as being clumsy or not having good spatial awareness.
Some kids may crave more sensory input and be sensory seeking. You may see them:
Constantly moving, crashing, or touching objects
Craving strong sensory experiences, like playing with sensory bins, getting messy, or picking up or pushing heavy objects
SPD can significantly impact a child’s behavior, attention, and emotional regulation.
It’s important to note that sensory processing disorder isn’t recognized as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition). SPD is identified by occupational therapists through a combination of:
Standardized assessments
Clinical observations
Caregiver or teacher reports
Reported impact on daily activities
Sensory processing disorder vs. autism
Sensory processing disorder and autism can appear similar, but they are different conditions. SPD is specifically related to how the nervous system takes in and handles sensory information. Autism is a broader neurodevelopmental condition that includes more than just sensory processing differences. It can affect a child’s behaviors, interests, social communication, and speech and language.
Autistic kids often have SPD. However, SPD can exist separately from autism. Just because a child has sensory processing issues doesn’t mean they’re autistic.
Autism is a difference in development, not a disorder. Learn about some of the differences in autistic people and how to support and affirm those differences.
Sensory processing disorder treatment
Occupational therapy (OT) is an effective treatment for sensory processing issues.
Occupational therapists focus on sensory regulation, using structured, play-based activities to help the brain better process sensory input.
Occupational therapists can also make sensory recommendations, called a “sensory diet.” This is a personalized set of activities to do throughout the day to help a child stay regulated. These activities might include jumping, deep pressure, or swinging.
The goal isn’t to get rid of a child’s sensory preferences, but to help them function successfully in daily life.
Making changes to your child’s environment can also help. Your therapist might recommend adjusting lighting, noise, seating, or routines to support your child’s needs.
Caregiver education is another big part of OT. During sessions, parents and caregivers learn to understand their child’s sensory processing issues and how to respond. The goal isn’t to get rid of a child’s sensory preferences, but to help them function successfully in daily life.
Occupational therapy for kids helps build the skills they need to play, learn, and grow. Learn how OTs support kids’ independence and confidence.
What is emotional regulation?
Emotional regulation is a related area that can also be supported in OT. Emotional regulation refers to recognizing and managing our emotions and feelings in an appropriate way.
Everyone has “big” or challenging emotions from time to time. It’s part of life. As children grow, they get better at handling these feelings, such as anger, fear, or anxiety. But kids don’t automatically know how to do this. They have to learn emotional regulation skills, through practice and seeing strong examples from caregivers. Kids often rely heavily on “co-regulation” to deal with big feelings. This means seeing their caregiver stay calm even when challenging situations and feelings come up. This helps kids stay regulated more easily.
It’s common for kids who have sensory processing disorder to also have challenges with emotional regulation.
Signs of emotional regulation difficulties in children can include:
Having big reactions to challenging situations
Sensitivity to problems that seem small, such as a toy not working or having trouble doing something themselves
Aggressive behaviors
Problems calming down after big feelings
It’s common for kids who have sensory processing disorder to also have challenges with emotional regulation. When their sensory system is overwhelmed, managing their emotions can be harder to do.
ADHD and emotional regulation
Many kids with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) feel their emotions more intensely and can have trouble with regulation. They may seem more irritable or react to situations more negatively than expected. This is because many children with ADHD have a hard time pausing and thinking about their reactions before they respond.
Emotional regulation skills and techniques
It’s important for kids who struggle with emotional regulation to learn skills and techniques for dealing with big feelings. An occupational therapist can teach your child techniques like these:
Identifying emotions
It helps to start with the basics of naming and understanding feelings. Children can practice saying “I feel mad” or “I feel worried.” This is an essential skill of emotional regulation.
Coping strategies
There are several emotional regulation techniques kids can use to calm down fast. Coping strategies often include things like:
Taking deep breaths
Taking a break when they’re upset or frustrated
Asking for help from parents, caregivers, or teachers
Problem-solving skills
Kids can learn skills such as how to respond to challenges without reacting impulsively. For example, they might focus on not getting upset if they can’t find something. They can practice talking to someone for help solving the issue.
Sensory regulation techniques
Learning how to regulate your child’s sensory system will help with emotional regulation, too. This might involve changing their environment to be less loud, or avoiding certain textures of clothing items.
Find out how to calm a dysregulated child, help a child with big emotions, and teach your child emotional regulation skills.
Occupational therapy for emotional regulation
OT is a key therapy for learning how to regulate emotions. Depending on the child’s needs, a pediatric occupational therapist may:
Teach coping strategies through play
Use sensory-based interventions to support a child’s regulation
Change the environment to reduce a child’s sensory triggers
Coach caregivers on co-regulation strategies they can use at home
What is an OT evaluation? Learn how occupational therapy evaluations for kids work and what to expect during your child’s first visit.
How do I know if my child needs OT for emotional regulation or sensory processing issues?
Kids who have problems with emotional regulation or sensory processing often have areas of their life that feel challenging. You should consider an OT evaluation if your child:
Has frequent, intense meltdowns beyond what’s typical for their age
Struggles to calm down without significant help
Avoids or seeks sensory input in ways that interfere with their daily life
Has a hard time with transitions, routines, or flexibility
Has challenges at school or daycare related to behavior or attention
Early intervention is best. Children will make progress more quickly once they begin receiving support from an OT.
How does online therapy work for OT?
Virtual OT is done through secure video sessions with a licensed occupational therapist. A parent or caregiver attends sessions alongside their child, so they can learn techniques and exercises to practice at home.
Like in-person OT, online sessions are interactive and play-based. Your child might:
Play with toys with the guidance of their therapist
Do crafts or sensory activities that support focus and emotional regulation
Participate in exercises to help with sensory regulation, such as deep pressure or swinging
Use pictures and videos to learn to identify and name emotions
Learn calming techniques such as mindfulness and deep breathing
Find an occupational therapist for your child
If you’re thinking about occupational therapy and aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you through your options. With the right support, your child can grow their emotional regulation skills and improve with sensory processing. Take the next step and get matched with an occupational therapist.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
The amygdala is the area of the brain that recognizes emotions, especially feelings like fear or stress. The prefrontal cortex works to manage emotional reactions by helping with impulse control and decision making.
The best techniques for emotional regulation can include identifying emotions, taking deep breaths, using co-regulation, and supporting the body with sensory regulation skills. Every child will have their own needs. Occupational therapy can help determine the best techniques for them.
Sensory processing relates to how kids identify and handle sensory information, which includes sight, smell, touch, movement, and sound. Kids who have trouble processing sensory input might have sensory processing disorder (SPD), which is a problem with how the nervous system receives and responds to sensory information.
Occupational therapy is important for kids with SPD. An occupational therapist can determine which types of activities support a child’s body and brain to better manage different types of sensory input. They also help families support these skills at home.
Sensory processing disorder often co-exists with autism. However, they can exist separately. Children can have SPD without being autistic.
How Expressable Can Help
Concerned your child isn't reaching age-expected milestones? Looking for communication support from a professional? Expressable is a national online speech and occupational therapy practice serving children and adults. We treat all major areas of communication, feeding, and developmental skills, offer flexible hours including evenings and weekends, and accept most major health insurance plans. We’re proud to have earned more than 4,500 5-star reviews from our clients (4.83/5 average).
Our therapy model is centered on parent and caregiver involvement. Research proves that empowering caregivers to participate in their loved one’s therapy leads to better outcomes. That’s why we combine live, 1-on-1 speech and occupational therapy with personalized education and home practice activities for faster progress.
