There are many places to find resources for sensory processing disorder (SPD). If you suspect your child may be struggling with SPD you are probably looking for ways to help your child. Below we’ll dive into a few different areas where resources are available.
Start with your pediatrician
The first thing I’d recommend is to make an appt with your child’s pediatrician. Discuss with them your concerns as well as observations you’ve made about your child’s sensory difficulties.
Your child’s doctor will give you more information on resources in your community and make referrals to specialists to assist you and your child. Make sure to request a referral to an occupational therapist.
OT and SPD
One of the best resources is to connect with a local occupational therapist (OT). The training and education occupational therapists receive makes them the perfect fit to work with those with SPD. Search out a provider who specializes in working with sensory integration.
The Star Institutes has a directory to search for OTs who work with and specialize in SPD.
Find An Occupational Therapist has a search feature to help you find an OT in your area. Make sure to read the descriptions or call the clinic to ensure you’ve found a provider who works with pediatrics (kids) and sensory processing.
Even if you don’t find a provider in your area on one of those directories, start calling your local therapy clinics and ask if they have providers that work with pediatrics and specifically sensory processing disorder.
Through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) your child may be eligible for early intervention or school-based services.
It may be helpful to connect with someone who understands the IEP process and can help to guide you to advocate for the right services for your child. Sanford Autism Advocacy Group is located in California but has online resources that can help people throughout the country. (and don’t let the name detour you, they work with all families, not just with autism.)
Work closely with your child’s teacher and other staff. If you are working with an OT (outside of school) be sure to communicate with the school what you are working on and what is working for your child. Work with the school to implement strategies that you’ve learned help your child. The goal is to help them to improve self-regulation and focus allowing them to improve their success at school.
Of course, you will find many resources online. Finding an online community can be a great way to connect with others who are going through a similar situation.
Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support provides many great resources. Here, you will find a community to connect with, activity ideas, and educational posts to help you understand what your child is going through. They also have a Facebook group that can be a wonderful place to connect with other families who are looking to help their child with SPD.
Of course, there are other websites dedicated to helping those with SPD, such as the Star Institute and of course the website you’re on right now, Sensory Sid!
There are so many places to gather information out there. Remember that each person is unique and something you read about another child may not work for yours.
It’s important to take the time to learn and fully understand what sensory processing disorder. Here is a great place to start that process! You want to be able to pick out the information and ideas that are right for your child. When you understand your child’s specific sensory needs you will be able to more easily identify which ideas you read might relate to or help your child.