Understanding Children’s Sensory Needs
We often hear words like sensory issues, sensory problems, sensory difficulties… but the truth is, your child’s brain knows exactly what it’s doing.
Their nervous system is intact—working hard to protect them, ground them, and keep them safe.
Of course, this doesn’t mean things aren’t challenging. It can be very hard when our world is designed for people with more common sensory systems, not for those with less common sensory needs.
Common Questions Parents Ask Me
When I meet families for the first time, I often hear questions like:
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Why do they refuse to do anything?
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Why do they move all the time?
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Why do they crawl around on the floor at school?
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Why do they drop down to the ground when upset?
The Real Answer
Your child’s actions—whether it’s moving, fidgeting, or seeking certain sensory input—are actually ways to:
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help their nervous system feel safe,
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ground themselves when overwhelmed,
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cope with sensory overload, and
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avoid tipping into fight-or-flight mode.
Sensory responses aren’t something wrong. They’re strategies your child is using to regulate, stay safe, and function in their environment.
A Simple Reframe
So the next time you see your child doing something unexpected, pause and ask yourself:
“How is this helping them?”
When we understand, we can support them better—and do more of what actually helps.
Want Help Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs?
Every child’s nervous system is unique. What helps one child might overwhelm another. That’s why understanding your child’s sensory profile can make such a difference.
In my 1:1 sessions, we look at what’s really going on beneath the behaviours. Together, we uncover what your child’s sensory responses mean, and we create simple, practical ways to support them at home and in daily life.
If you’ve ever wondered “Why do they do that?” — this is where you’ll get clarity, confidence, and strategies that fit your child.
