Have you ever noticed a child covering their ears when a vacuum cleaner starts, refusing to wear certain clothes, or constantly seeking movement and physical activity? These behaviours may be linked to sensory processing differences.

Sensory processing affects how we receive, understand and respond to information from the world around us. When sensory input is processed differently, everyday activities can feel overwhelming, uncomfortable or challenging.

Understanding sensory processing can help families, carers and educators better support children and adults to participate confidently in daily life.

What Is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing is the way our brain receives information from our senses and interprets it so we can respond appropriately.

Most people are familiar with the five senses:

  • Sight
  • Sound
  • Taste
  • Touch
  • Smell

However, our bodies also rely on additional sensory systems that help us understand movement, body position and balance.

These include:

  • Proprioception – awareness of where our body is in space
  • Vestibular processing – balance and movement
  • Interoception – awareness of internal body signals such as hunger, thirst and emotions

For many people, the brain processes sensory information automatically. For others, sensory information may be experienced more intensely, less intensely or differently, making everyday situations more challenging.

What Does It Mean to Have Sensory Processing Differences?

People with sensory processing differences may be either over-responsive, under-responsive or seek additional sensory input.

Sensory Sensitivity (Over-Responsive)

Some people experience sensory information more intensely than others.

They may:

  • Cover their ears around loud noises
  • Avoid crowded or busy environments
  • Become distressed by bright lights
  • Refuse certain food textures
  • Dislike particular clothing fabrics or tags
  • Become overwhelmed in unfamiliar environments

Sensory Seeking

Some people actively seek sensory experiences.

They may:

  • Constantly move, jump or climb
  • Enjoy spinning or swinging
  • Seek strong pressure such as tight hugs
  • Touch objects frequently
  • Make loud noises or seek loud environments
  • Have difficulty sitting still

Sensory Under-Responsiveness

Others may not notice sensory information as easily.

They may:

  • Not respond when their name is called
  • Have a high pain tolerance
  • Seem unaware of mess on their face or clothing
  • Miss social cues or environmental information
  • Appear tired or disengaged

It’s important to remember that everyone experiences sensory preferences differently. A sensory difference is not something that needs to be “fixed”. Instead, understanding these experiences can help identify supports that make daily life easier and more enjoyable.

How Sensory Processing Affects Everyday Life

Sensory processing differences can impact many areas of daily living.

These may include:

At Home

A child may struggle with:

  • Getting dressed
  • Bath time
  • Mealtimes
  • Bedtime routines
  • Household noise

Adults may find certain environments exhausting or need extra time to recover after sensory-heavy situations.

At School or Work

Sensory challenges can affect:

  • Concentration
  • Learning
  • Organisation
  • Participating in group activities
  • Managing transitions
  • Coping with noise and distractions

In the Community

Busy shopping centres, public transport, sporting events and social gatherings may feel overwhelming for some people.

As a result, individuals may avoid activities they would otherwise enjoy.

Practical Strategies That May Help

Every person is unique, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, there are many practical ways to support sensory needs.

Create Predictable Routines

Knowing what to expect can reduce stress and sensory overwhelm.

Visual schedules, calendars and clear communication can help individuals prepare for changes and transitions.

Identify Sensory Triggers

Pay attention to situations that regularly cause distress or discomfort.

Common triggers may include:

  • Loud noises
  • Bright lighting
  • Crowded spaces
  • Strong smells
  • Certain textures

Once identified, adjustments can often be made to reduce the impact.

Provide Sensory Breaks

Short breaks throughout the day can help regulate sensory systems.

Depending on the individual’s needs, this might include:

  • Time in a quiet space
  • Movement activities
  • Deep pressure activities
  • Listening to calming music
  • Breathing exercises

Respect Sensory Preferences

Rather than encouraging someone to simply “push through” discomfort, it can be helpful to acknowledge and accommodate sensory needs where possible.

Small adjustments can make a significant difference to participation and wellbeing.

When Should You Seek Support?

If sensory challenges are affecting daily activities, participation, learning, relationships or independence, it may be helpful to seek professional support.

An Occupational Therapist can help identify sensory processing differences and work with individuals, families and support networks to develop practical strategies tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Support may focus on:

  • Daily living skills
  • Emotional regulation
  • School participation
  • Community access
  • Building independence
  • Environmental modifications
  • Family and caregiver education

How Occupational Therapists Help With Sensory Processing

Occupational Therapists (OTs) take a holistic approach to understanding how sensory processing impacts everyday life.

Rather than focusing solely on sensory experiences themselves, OTs look at how those experiences affect participation in activities that are meaningful to the individual.

An OT may:

  • Assess sensory strengths and challenges
  • Identify barriers to participation
  • Develop personalised sensory strategies
  • Support emotional regulation skills
  • Recommend environmental adjustments
  • Provide practical tools for home, school, work and community settings

The goal is to help individuals feel more comfortable, confident and capable in their daily lives.

How LiveBig Can Help

At LiveBig, our Occupational Therapists work alongside children, adults, families and support networks to better understand sensory processing and develop practical, person-centred strategies.

We focus on each person’s strengths, goals and individual needs, helping them participate more confidently at home, school, work and in the community.

Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child or someone you care for, our team can help identify strategies that promote independence, wellbeing and meaningful participation in everyday life.

Want to learn more about Occupational Therapy and sensory processing? Contact LiveBig to speak with one of our experienced Occupational Therapists today.