Does Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) really exist? Doctors and scientists agree that the symptoms of SPD exist alongside other conditions. Many however, don’t agree on whether it should be a diagnosis in and of itself.
Maybe they should just ask the parents.
Living with a child who has SPD, you just know
You know their clothing will never be “right.”
“My left pant leg is rolled up more than my right pant leg.”
“Ugh! Why do we even have to roll them up?”
“They can’t touch my ankles.”
“But your socks are touching your ankles.”
“That’s different.”
You know there will be an issue with their food.
“What food does your baby like?”
“Bananas.”
“Cool. What else?”
“That’s it. Just bananas.”
“O…k…”
You know lights and sound can cause an eruption that makes Pompeii seem mild.
“Blanket to pull over your head? Check.”
“Sunglasses? Check.”
“Noise-canceling earbuds? Check.”
“Okay. Ready to go get groceries?”
You know you learn new words every day on the playground.
“The slide feels slicky.”
“What does slicky mean?”
“You know, slicky.”
“Just play on the swings then.”
“They’re crinky.”
“Oh, brother…”
You know it exists.
Occupational therapy for SPD
While doctors may not recognize SPD as a medical diagnosis, occupational therapists often see and treat kids with SPD. There are many approaches to therapy that can be life-changing for these families. Therapists see what parents see and they too, know it exists.
Because it isn’t classified as a medical diagnosis, insurance may not cover SPD, but seeking occupational therapy is worth every penny. It is estimated that 1 in 6 children have SPD symptoms and could benefit from treatment. If you know that your child has SPD symptoms, talking to an occupational therapist can be the answer you have been looking for.
You know the bedtime routine.
“Not brushing teeth!”
“Come on. We’ll speed brush.”
“Not speed brushing!”
“I’ll race you.”
“You win, Dad.”
“Air hug.”
“Good night, Dad.”
“Air hug.”
“Good night, kiddo.”
Yeah, you got it. Didn’t you? You know.
