Seasons Change and So Does Sensory Processing in Children

kids running into waves, sensory processing

By Elizabeth Sautter, M.A., CCC-SLPFor kids with sensory processing issues, ordinary summertime experiences like walking on sand, applying sunscreen, and wearing a bathing suit can present significant challenges. Sensory processing refers to the ability to manage the sensations and feelings that come in through our senses. Some kids may be oversensitive and often feel “sensory overload,” while others are under-sensitive and seek more stimulation through constant movement or rough play. Some children either seek or avoid sensory input depending on the situation.When a child’s sensory processing becomes dysregulated, it affects their ability to think clearly, communicate, and interact because they’re internally dysregulated. This is common during the summer months, when kids face sensory experiences related to water, sand, chlorine, bug spray, sandals, and more. To help handle sensory issues during the summer months, we wanted to share this wonderful article, Summertime Challenges for Kids With Sensory Processing Issues, from the website Understood.org.