Module 2 • Behaviour Problems 2.12 Oversensitivity to stimulation
A good daily programme involves all children, is constructive and stimulating. Most children will be happy in such an environment, but sometimes overstimulated children need a quiet, calm area in where they can get away from everything for a while.
Did you know?
Interesting facts: We often hear of children that are hypersensitive to sensory stimulation. This is called sensory defensiveness
What is sensory defensiveness?
Does the child get upset by tags in clothing, the sound of the vacuum cleaner, or certain smells in the environment?
If so, the child may be showing signs of sensory defensiveness. Sensory defensiveness is a negative reaction to one or more types of sensations (such as touch, movement, sound, taste/ texture, or smell), often requiring you to control the child’s daily routine to avoid such situations.
There are different types of sensory defensiveness including tactile (touch), gravitational (movement and balance), auditory (hearing), and oral defensiveness (taste, smell, texture).
Tactile defensiveness (touch)
The tactile system is our sense of touch. It protects us from danger and helps us identify different objects in the environment. A child showing signs of tactile defensiveness may: • Overreact to ordinary touch experiences (e.g. touching play dough or being touched by someone).
• Avoid daily activities (e.g. washing face/hands or brushing hair). • Avoid light touch (e.g. a kiss) but seek out deep touch (e.g. a bear hug).
Vestibular insecurity (balance/movement)
The vestibular system is our sense of movement and balance. It tells us where our head and body are in relation to gravity and other objects and supports our vision, posture, emotions, and co-ordination skills. A child showing signs of gravitational insecurity may: • Have an excessive fear of falling during ordinary movement activities (e.g. swinging, riding a bicycle, or climbing).
• Become overwhelmed by changes in head position (e.g. being upside down). • Have difficulty socialising with peers and will avoid group activities during outdoor play. • Prefer quiet (minimal movement) activities (e.g. reading a book or watching television).
Auditory defensiveness (sound)
The auditory system is our sense of hearing and listening. It processes the sensations of movement and sound and helps us respond appropriately to the sounds we hear. A child showing signs of auditory defensiveness may:
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