Commonly overlooked sensory red flags and signs of sensory issues that could be a clue to your child’s needs, which will decrease confusion and frustration.
This thing happens to me all the time as a pediatric OT… I’m talking to parents during a party, a play-date, or even in line at the grocery store, and the parent casually mentions, often in passing, an odd thing that their child does.
Maybe their child walks around on their toes all the time, gags at some foods, or their toddler hates swings or being messy? Sometimes, they aren’t even that concerned about this odd “thing”.
Often times, I know this “thing” their child is doing is a sensory “issue” or sign of a sensory processing difficulties (which isn’t as bad as it sounds!)
Just because your toddler doesn’t like messy hands doesn’t necessarily mean there is a problem, but it is worth paying attention to.
Sensory processing can be very complicated, and the truth is many parents have never heard about it. Some realize their child may have some sensory issues that sometimes cause odd, confusing, or frustrating behaviors.
When I find myself in these situations, I usually feel a bit stuck because sensory processing isn’t exactly a quick topic, especially for parents who’ve never even heard about it.
If you’ve found your way here, my bet is that you know at least a little something about sensory processing, but if not, that is okay, too.
Either way, I have an exciting solution to that problem, but before I get to that, let’s talk more about these sensory red flags.
What are Sensory Red Flags Exactly?
A sensory red flag is a sign that a child may have a sensory “issue,” or as we prefer to say, a sensory need. Others may call it a sensory behavior. Basically, it’s anything your child does that indicates their sensory system needs more sensory input or less.
That sensory need happens because of the way their unique brain is “thinking” about the sensory input it’s receiving.
It’s not a choice they are making, but literally because of how their brain is wired.
Let me give you a REALLY simple example. My son loves to jump on the furniture. This is a sensory red flag or sign for him because I can see that he is trying to get more sensory input when he’s doing that.
I wanted to write about a few of the most overlooked sensory behaviors or red flags, so that you can begin seeing why your child does seemingly odd or unusual things.
Understanding why your child is waving a sensory red flag, or displaying signs of sensory issues, will help you help them!
But before you even do that, you need to know what the heck this sensory thing is all about. Because I know that as I sit and write this, many of you are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated.
It’s a reaction that I’ve seen too many times to count, and, to be honest, it gets my anxiety going up because I want to help you! I know the solution to that frustration and overwhelming feeling.
Here’s a short video summing up why it’s important to identify sensory red flags, and why they don’t mean something is wrong with your child.
10 Sensory Processing Challenges and Red Flags
Before we dive into these behaviors, I want to make it VERY clear that just because your child may have one or several of these red flags, it doesn’t mean that they have sensory problems, autism, or any other diagnosis.
We ALL have sensory processing needs and differences. Seeing your child’s behavior through the sensory lens will allow you to understand them and support their needs, which means less confusion and frustration for everybody!
And, if you’re concerned that your child’s sensory issues need addressed by a professional, then check out sensory integration therapy.
You’ll find a guide to walk you through figuring that all out so you have peace of mind! If you are concerned your child has autism, or already know they do, check out the link between autism and sensory processing.
1. Avoids Movement – If your child gets scared at climbing playground equipment, roughhousing, or riding a swing, they are likely avoiding vestibular and possibly proprioceptive input.
Those are our sixth and seventh senses that give us our sense of balance and body awareness.
2. Gagging at the Sight, Taste, and Smell of Foods – Although not always sensory, gagging immediately when confronted with foods is often because the oral system is being overwhelmed. Read more about sensory issues with food.
3. Frequently Walking on Toes – Children often do this because they are sensitive to the sensations they are feeling on their feet and prefer as little of their foot to be touching the surface as possible.
Sometime children toe-walk because they like the pressure it puts on their ankle, which is more proprioceptive feedback. Or, it can also be the result of a vestibular system that isn’t processing properly.
4. Clumsy – There are a variety of reasons that a child may seem to fall or bump into objects more than other children, and one of the most overlooked reasons is because the child’s proprioception and possibly vestibular systems aren’t working too well.
The wiring may be all jumbled up.
Some children with this sensory red flag don’t put their hands out when falling, or seems unaware of how to catch themself when off balance.
5. Hides at Parties or Avoids Them – If your child hates going to parties or other public places, it is possible that they may be overstimulated by the noise, lights, and/or people accidentally touching them.
For kids that have this response due to a sensory processing difficulty, a party can be downright torture as the sounds, sights, and unexpected touches can just be painful to them, literally. Head to sensory sensitivity in kids to learn more.
6. Prefers Tight Clothing – Sometimes kids will want to layer clothes or wear really tight fitting clothing to give themselves more proprioceptive input. It may seem strange, but the sensation they receive is calming to them and may even help them focus better.
Or, your child may be extremely particular about some sort of fabric. This all relates back to sensory. Head over to sensory issues with clothing to learn more.
7. Wild Child– There are a variety of reasons that kids seem to bounce off the walls at times, but kids that always seem to be jumping, climbing, running, pushing, and roughhousing are typically seeking out proprioceptive input, and sometimes vestibular as well.
Unfortunately, these kids are often described as “bad” or wild, but really, they are just trying to get their needs met. Read more about sensory strategies for sensory seekers or “wild kids”, and a three part plan for “dealing with” hyperactive kids.
8. Likes Bright, Fast Paced TV Shows – I know a lot of kids like these types of shows, but if your child only wants to watch fast, bright shows, then it may be an indication that they want more visual stimulation.
If that is the case, your child may also like looking at lights and brightly colored or high contrast books.
9. Bites Toys or People When Unprovoked – If your child seems to bite others or their toys often, usually for no reason, they are probably looking for some deep, intense proprioceptive input or oral sensory input.
10. Doesn’t seem to notice when being talked to or needs directions repeated – Yes, sometimes kids ignore, and sometimes this is normal, but if it is a frequent recurring issue than it is a sign that your child’s auditory or hearing system is not processing information well.
Check out 11 more sensory red flags in the follow up post.
Does Your Child Have Sensory Red Flags?
All of these behaviors are like a red flag that your child is waving to tell you something about their sensory processing.
It is a clue into what they need from a sensory standpoint. That need may be help avoiding something like bright lights or seeking something like chewing on toys.
To start figuring out what types of sensory activities might be helpful for your child, follow these steps:
1. Identify which type of sensory need your child has. There are four big categories for sensory issues: seeking, avoiding, low registration, and varied. If that feels overwhelming or you have no idea, I highly recommend our free 1 hour workshop that will help you figure it out!
2. Once you know which type of sensory need your child has then you can match the types of sensory diet activities that will be most helpful for them!
3. Organize when and how often you use the sensory activities by using a sensory diet, which has nothing to do with food, but is a diet of supports and sensory input that help calm and organize your child’s brain.
(Steps 2 and 3 are also taught in the free sensory workshop!)
Get the 21 Sensory Red Flags Printable Checklist
Wish you had all these red flags and 11 more you might be missing in a list you could download and/or print out?
I’ve got you covered! Click here to get the 21 Sensory Red Flags checklist sent right to your inbox!
More on Kids Sensory Red Flags
Does Your Child Cry All The Time? This Might Be Why…
33 Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder
How to Identify Sensory Issues in Toddlers
4 Simple After School Routines That Will Cut the Chaos.
Alisha Grogan is a licensed occupational therapist and founder of Your Kid’s Table. She has over 19 years experience with expertise in sensory processing and feeding development in babies, toddlers, and children. Alisha also has 3 boys of her own at home. Learn more about her here.
Hi!
My husband and I have had custody and are going through adoption processes for my 6 year old brother after our dad passed suddenly last year. His name is Evan. Evan has endured a lot of trauma from the lifestyle that my dad was raising him in while my dad was using drugs. There are a ton of things that we notice him do that are so much different than our two children, developmentally.
He was never introduced to school and started when we gained custody of him. He was never taught anything regarding learning so he is obviously behind. However, he exhibits some behaviors that I have inquired with his therapist about that really worry me. He has an incredible staring problem and stares at my husband while he is eating, even with us correcting the behavior over every meal. He lies about mundane things and seems to lack the confidence to not be utterly crushed every time his behavior is corrected, despite how gentle or firm we are. He has baby-like tendencies (whining, crying any time he is told no) and there is documented abuse like being left on his back for extended periods of time as a baby and malnourishment to the point that he was vomiting regularly.
We are really struggling with some behavior issues in school, as well, like having meltdowns when he is corrected. We try the disciplinary methods that we know as well as encouraging him and building him up.
Do you think we should seek any secondary opinions to see if there are some behavioral issues that we can treat differently? Do you think his behaviors are associated with the trauma that he has experienced? Any advice on how to manage the staring/correcting issues?
Thank you so much for your assistance!
Hey Chelsie,
So sorry for all that you are dealing with and trying to figure out. It can be hard! If you are thinking that any of his behaviors are stemming from a sensory standpoint, you can reach out to an occupational therapist for an evaluation. With everything he has been through, it’s hard to say what started what and where the behaviors are coming from. Hope that helps!
Best,
Desiree
Chelsie,
One thing to investigate or consider is that staring off into space or “looking through” someone can be a symptom of epilepsy.
Just a thought about staring at your husband. Your Dad was the biggest scariest thing around for him, and maybe he feels the need the keep men in his sightline so they don’t surprise him with movements. I’m not sure what type of correction you are doing, but not all “strange” behaviors need to be immediately extinguished. He may stop doing it if and when he feels safer around your husband.
It sounds like he needs reflex integration therapy. There are many developmental clinics that offer this. Best wishes, Stephanie
Hi my name is Natalie I am 25 years old and for as long as i can remember ive always been what seems like, obsessed with tucking my hair behind my ears very tightly, tucking my sun/glasses behind my ears and against my head front and behind my ears, even when my sun glasses are off my face and pushed in my hair im constantly readjusting them so they are set perfectly behind my ears as tight as possible. at first i didnt think anything about it even when i would brush my hair out from behind my ears 20times because i just didnt feel like it was done right its tight enough the first 21 times. as i am an adult now ive gone through several pair of glasses because they just dont seem to do justice anymore and im starting to see that this is bigger than i thought. Is this anything youve heard of or understand to help me in anyway like finding a name for my issue.i do have anxiety and i am taking medication for jt so i just assume maybe thay has somthkng to do with it. Ive never talked to anyome about this ever in my life
Hi Natalie! Thanks for reaching out! What you’ve described definitely sounds sensory related! Behaviors like this can be a result of difficulties with sensory processing. We have a blog post that explains more in detail. While it’s targeted towards kids with SPD (sensory processing disorder), the information can still be helpful for yourself! Check it out here! Hope that helps, and it’s great that you are reaching out about this! You are definitely not alone! We are here to help if you have any additional questions 🙂
Best,
Kalyn
Hi there, my 8 year old son has recently started to show some sensory issues and I am a little concerned. He has always been a little difficult in some social situations, more so with family than friends I think, perhaps because he’s more central in these situations and so feels more pressure or something, I’m not sure, but he holds his own and usually gets through it. Afterwards he cannot wait to get some quiet time on his own for a couple of hours. This is something we have always managed and understand about him.
However, there have been some issues that are massively more apparent than they used to be. For instance, he finds social situations harder than he used to because now he is extra worried about germs and he gets quite stressed. There has been a worrying amount of hand washing and he has had fall outs with friends over coughing or perceive dirt. He is incredibly clumsy. He walks on his tiptoes when he isn’t wearing shoes (even with shoes on mildly, but you’d need to look closely).
He also has a complete meltdown when he has his hair cut because of the hair scratching and tickling him. It’s understandable of course, but his reaction is extreme and not something he ever did as a young child. He’s noisy and loud, but what 8 year old boy isn’t, I’d not note it, except he’s quite sensitive to other people being the same.
Sorry for the long post, I feel as though I have made excuses over the years but things are getting more obvious now. Do you think this is something I need to get addressed in terms of his mental health or sensory needs or simply try to manage ourselves and get a bit of advice on how to handle this?
By the way, he’s generally happy, he’s bright and doing well at school, but there has been a few issues with his interactions and he doesn’t seem to work very well with others despite best intentions.
I suspect a level of high functioning autism and as he’s quite anxious I am cautious about labelling him, but don’t want to ignore it and potentially miss something I could have helped him with.
I’d welcome any advice you can give.
Thanks
Mel
My 2.5 year old has been swiping other children in the face or pushing them when they come into his space. He doesn’t do it necessarily I’ve noticed when the child communicates with him as they approach. He doesn’t have intent to hurt them. He has been doing this ever since his baby sister was born (4months now) and moving up rooms at daycare.
Hi, I have a son and he’s 2 years and 6 months old. My major concern is that he doesn’t have a lot of words in yet and he doesn’t like it when you try to teach him stuffs like the alphabet and numbers, he fusses about it and after few minutes, he says “all done” and tries to close the book. He answers to his name, make hand gestures and points when he wants something or will open the fridge and bring out what he wants😁. He is very receptive. Is there a way to get a toddler to say more words?
Hi Joy! Thanks for reaching out! For the speech, I’d say it’s normal for kids to develop speech at their own pace and can be normal for them not wanting to sit and attend to a learning task. I’d try to get him engaged in letters, etc while doing a sensory task, like swinging or bouncing on a ball to see if that helps but make it a shorter “lesson”. If you are having concerns with speech I’d mention it to your pediatrician or if you are in the US you can reach out for early intervention evaluation!
Best,
Kalyn
I wanted reach out and thank you for posting about this topic. My daughter is 3 and was diagnosed with global delayed development, eilepsy, and autism. Alot of the sensory topics you had mentioned my daughter showed way before before being diagnosed and wished I could have caught it before hand before getting all this with 6 months span. This is something I think every parent no matter if there is a diagnosis or not should know about. It wasnt until she was seeing OT that I learned about this topic (and I have a 9 yead old) and am now learning ways to help her. So thank you for writing and even giving links on ways to integrate I think it is amazing, and really helpful for parents and even for the kids!
Hi Christina! Thank you so much for reaching out, sharing part of your story, and providing such awesome feedback. We are thrilled to hear that you found this post helpful and that your daughter is surrounded by so much support to help her thrive! Our goal is to continue to spread knowledge and awareness, ensuring that parents and caregivers know that they are not alone in this!
Best,
Kalyn
Hey everyone. My son is only 14 months old right now , I know it’s very young and I have been told many times to not worry yet or told it’s all normal development. But he does already show signs that he has issues processing sensory. A couple of examples, he isn’t walking on his own yet but he is always going on his tippy toes while he’s practising. His hearing is good but doesn’t respond to to me calling his name sometimes it’s like he’s ignoring me. He makes eye contact a lot and smiles soo much . He does hand flapping, he’s always struggled with sleep going to sleep and saying asleep. I guess I just want to know if anyone else noticed signs very young like this and it turning out to be signs?
Hi Jessica! Thanks for reaching out! Based off everything you described, there could definitely be some signs of sensory processing disorder. We have a blog post that talks more about this. Check it out here, and let us know if you have any further questions!
Best,
Kalyn
This is a comment to Jessica. I have a daughter
That has Autism . In your comment you said
He hand flaps. That is a major sign if he does
This alot. My daughter did this alot. As he
Gets older and is still hand flapping I would
Get him tested.
Hi my 2 yr 4month old granddaughter is clever . She takes you to what she wants but isn’t speaking yet . She does say dada, mum, gaga (granda) makes plenty of noise but not interested in learning words. She sits with her books as if she is reading them. She is very full on eye contact cuddles kisses with her parents and is coming around to being more affectionate with family.. my daughter had a speech therapist visit her and within 30 minutes she said to my daughter…. I think we have a little girl with Autism. My daughter felt as if the woman had hit her in the face. ( Shocked) . What do you think of this.
Hi Catherine! Thanks for reaching out! Glad to hear she’s currently seeing a speech therapist! It’s important to know that while most children with autism have sensory issues, it doesn’t necessarily mean that a child with sensory issues has autism. We would encourage her to consult her pediatrician for a referral to test for autism. In the meantime, check out our blog post about autism and sensory, here!
Best,
Kalyn
Hi, my 6 year old daughter is a great kid, hits all targets, behaves exceptionally at school, out for meals etc and follows instructions when asked. However, odd times she gets so excited (usually hyped up with friends or animals) and she starts behaving differently, not naughty or nasty, but like she’s been given a whole dose of caffeine, a tube of smarties, shook up and let go 😂 and no matter how many times I call her, she doesn’t listed. When I hold her and talk to her it’s like her eyes are glazed and it just doesn’t go in! Unsure if it’s a behaviour I just need to work on (remove her from the situation until she will focus), or possibly a sensory overload?
Hi Sarah! Thanks for reaching out! What you’ve described sounds like it could be sensory related. In which case, you could try exactly what you said- removing her from the situation, or even trying some proprioceptive activities during these situations to see if it helps center and calm her. Since it only happens when she’s super excited, it could just be a sensory overload, where she’s in need of an outlet for those sensory needs! Hope that helps!
Best,
Kalyn
Hello,
My son has just turned 3, not speaking for communicating – what he wants. He will drag you or hold you gently by his hands to ask for things. We tried to wait till he tries to communicate- and it’s bringing out some words like ‘ yogurt’ from him.
He is very good in his eating and sleeping patterns. He can recite A, B C to Z and numbers 1 to 10 and backwards 10 to 1. Can identify fruits and vegetables and usually names them coherently. Identifies shapes of objects well. We find that he understands us – our speech but finding it difficult to answer back. He recites some nursery rhymes as well and is improving daily for its clarity.
He will make eye contact with both his parents and sister and loves to play with us. But in a social group we found he prefers to play alone.
Please give us your advice on this and many thanks for the great article.
Worried parents ( mom and dad). And to add his sister is a great 6 year old and was an early talker.
Many thanks and sorry for this long question.
Hi David! Thanks for reaching out! It sounds like he’s making great progress! All kids are different- with that being said, there doesn’t seem to be any red flags with what you’ve described here, but always reach out to a pediatrician for any concerns! 🙂
Best,
Kalyn
My son is nearly 17 months old. He’s walking, but there are many things I’m worried about. He’s suffered with ear infections alot and I believe it’s effected his hearing. He doesn’t wave clap or point and hardly mumbles now. He was saying mum dad and pretty (obviously not properly)around 8 months. He doesn’t say anything at all and doesn’t babble anymore.
Hi Katy! So sorry to hear he’s struggling with his speech and certain milestones. Try not to stress! I would discuss your concerns with your pediatrician, and see if they can do a speech evaluation and maybe even refer you to a speech therapist or occupational therapist! In the meantime, keep practicing with him: sounding words out, reading together, word play, etc.
Best,
Kalyn
Hi this is exactly what i am going thru with my son turning 3 in June i also get worried as far as him wanting to play alone, i feel a lil better other kids act this way
My 2 and a half year old daughter seems to like staring at lights. She doesn’t seek them out as such but she will occasionally look up and look away or it she is laying on the floor she will stare at them until she gets up. Does this sound sensory or is it just a quirky toddler thing that she will grow out of?
Hi Dani! Thanks for stopping by! Staring at lights can provide visual stimulation, so this could potentially be something sensory. However, if it’s not affecting her or causing any disruptions, then it’s most likely nothing to worry about.
Best,
Kalyn
I’m autistic. When I run into a parent whose kid is showing possible signs of sensory issues, usually I don’t even bring up labels, just speculate about the possible motivation the kid might have. For example, for a tiptoeing child, “maybe he doesn’t like what the ground feels like”, or for a picky eater “some kids are picky because they’re really sensitive to what taste or texture a food has”. Personally, I don’t think a diagnosis is as important as just having a parent who sympathizes and understands that you’re not trying to be badly behaved, you’re just really uncomfortable with that thing. If a parent isn’t ready to consider a diagnosis, you can still help the kid by encouraging them to see potential sensory issues from the kid’s perspective.
Hey Ettina,
Oh I love the way you approach this and phrase things to parents. That’s so wonderful! We absolutely agree, having a diagnosis isn’t as important as being in tune with the kiddos needs. Thanks for sharing this 🙂
Best,
Andrea
Hello. I am here because I am at lost. I have a almost 6 yrs old who recently starting gaging on stuff. Even if we said “oh no the dog poop” he starts gaging. Or if he sees something on the floor like for instance I dropped the bbq bottle and spilled the bbq. He saw it and gagged. Or even his own poop he can’t wipe his but without gaging. I been called 3 times from school because he had threw up. In the morning he gags out of nowhere. He didn’t used to do this until one time he got sick with allergies and he was all stuffed on his nose and the drainage was going to the back of his throat. Is when I notice he started gagging and throwing up cuz he was disgusted of how the mucus felt on the back of his throat. But now all the other gagging for random stuff is making me wonder why if he didn’t used to be like that. Any one can help me or tell me what to do or where to get him help? I am hoping for something that will pass but is been weeks. A week he is ok then again 🙁
Hey Erika,
That sounds really difficult for you guys! It does sound like it may be related to an over response in his sensory system. Working with him using sensory bins may be a great place to start to get him used to different textures, sights and smells. We have tons of ideas HERE!
Best,
Andrea
my 4 year old son only wants cuddles from me he doesnt like water going near his face or he freaks out he moans about cetrian clothes doesnt like loud noises and goes through a staged of flicking his fingers he moans about the fire going on or the heater on in the car
Hey Danielle,
That sounds like he might be having some sensory challenges! Those all can be such challenges on a day to day basis! Our article on clothing sensitivities in particular might be helpful. You can check that out HERE.
Best,
Andrea
Hi, I have a 7 year old daughter who has sensory, issues and has high functioning autism, recently she has been laying her dolls face down and thinks they are going to catch fire for no reason, this concerns me a lot, I have been struggling to get medical for her, so she is currently not on any medication for this
Hi! My son is almost 3 and for the last couple of months I’ve noticed he has issues with his feet. He balks at the idea of socks. As soon as the sock go on, he’s screaming and pulling them off saying “they hurt” but he’ll put his shoes on without socks. He’s sensitive to small bits of sand in his shoes however. At night when we put his blanket over him, he pushes it off saying his feet hurt (this doesn’t happen in the daytime for naps which is weird). In terms of food, he is extremely fussy, which I put down to his age, but this coupled with the recent foot problem has me concerned. He does not eat meat (unless it’s chicken nuggets), won’t let any veggies pass his lips. He eats all the usual things (bread, cereal, porridge, fruit pouches, apples, rice cakes, etc). He doesn’t display the usual signs of autism in that he is very social, interacts well with everyone and converses appropriately for his age while also maintaining good eye contact, so I’m not sure if he is on the spectrum. I just don’t know though, as I’m not a professional. Could this just be a sensory issue? Or more likely that he doesn’t know the difference between “hurt” and “annoying”?
Hey Tam,
Thanks for reaching out! There are so many kiddos who have sensory challenges that do not have autism. Many children with autism do also have sensory challenges, so I think that’s where the confusion can happen! We know it can be really stressful when kiddos start refusing to wear certain clothing and become picky eaters! I’d check out our guide to sensory solutions for clothing. It’s a great resource! Reach out to us with any questions 🙂
Best,
Andrea
Hi,
I have a 3 year old who since was a baby I mentioned reaction to loud noises and hyperactivity, not liking to touch certain substances I.e paint or playdough. Overreaction to little things, very demanding regarding what she wants, will instantly react to things like a tv advert and can get hysterical. Very clingy to myself, seems to have no sense of danger. But like to climb and run even though clumsy. Still likes to chew tea towels and towels in particular. Won’t respond to name, doesn’t know last name. Won’t use a cup, or knife or spoon. Very fussy with food.
The list is endless. I have worked and am educated in children with Behavioural problems and disabilities.
I myself asked the health visitor centre for a referral regarding her sensitivity to loud noise, which is on going as she reacted badly to the test.
I had raised my concerns repeatedly with the health visitor, but nothing, 7 month of nursery, knowing my concerns, no feedback, apart from the usual “had a good time” . I agreed that there should be an open communication between myself, nursery and the H/V. But have now received a letter stating nursery have suggested speech delay (first I’ve heard of it) and still over focused on sensory play. What concerns me, is surely they would have talked with myself before making the contact to the HV and is making me anxious as to why they didn’t. I feel like I’m being kept out the loop or they are suggesting it is something at home that is causing the issues they deal with. They also mentioned she won’t eat at nursery, which I’ve said before she is picky with food but eats when is home.
I’m a lone parent with little support and this is scaring me. She’s hardly sleeps and still will not let go of her bottle. I’ve had the tips to deal with it. But how can I let her scream all night then expect her to go nursery.
The HV want her 36 months assessment down at nursery and at home. Is this normal?
Sorry for the amount Of information.
And I myself am a high functioning autistic.
Hi Carly,
We’re so glad you reached out! It sounds like a really stressful situation for you. I want to encourage you a bit, it is very common for daycares to make the suggestion of speech therapy or occupational therapy. They see kiddos around the same age day after day. During an evaluation if the therapist doesn’t see any concerns then they won’t recommend therapy. Our free picky eating workshop would be a good resource for you to check out to give you some good next steps as far as feeding is concerned. You can save your seat HERE. Let us know if you have any questions at all!
Best,
Andrea
My son is 10 years old and walks on his tip toes quite a bit if I’m asking him something or he laughs and cries at same time if there something he wanted or asked to do. He gets easily distracted and wont look you in the eye at all. Please help. He has speech problems.
Hi Tiffany,
That sounds really challenging! You might check in with his doctor and chat with them about all of your concerns. Our free sensory workshop would also be a great fit! It will give you suggestions that you can start using right away to help calm and focus him when needed. You can save your seat HERE. Let us know if you have any questions!
Best,
Andrea
Hi, my son is 22 months old he can crawl and walk yet he prefers to bum shuffle, he likes to feel carpet and lick strange things that he shouldn’t like a bike wheel, carpet, door hinges & ect… he also doesn’t always listen when I call his name and he mainly brings his hands up to his mouth or eyes and moans and he likes biting toys instead of playing with them he even has a stack of rings he will take them off but not put them back on and he doesn’t talk yet or use a spoon he only babbles a little too I am so worried about him since he is my first child and he likes to twirl too.
Hey Lizzy,
Thanks for reaching out! It might be helpful to bring up any concerns you have with his doctor at the next appointment. It does sound like he may have some sensory challenges. Trying out an electric toothbrush might be a good place to start to give him the stimulation he is craving. Sometimes it can be helpful in reducing excessive mouthing of toys. Our article on sensory challenges in toddlers might also be helpful to give you some ideas.
Best,
Andrea
Hey Lizzy! My son is 21 months old and doing the same things! Almost every thing you mentioned he also does. No words yet.. he was saying momma and dada but stopped at around 15 months! We are in the process of getting him into speech therapy and a few other things at the moment.
Hello, i have a 6 yo who is diagnosed with autism last year. This past 3-4 months she’s been obssessed with wearing socks all the time. And the concerning part is, she will get agressives towards other girls anywhere who are around her age or younger if they are not wearing socks. Agressives: she will pinch their top part of their foot. It’s just getting out of our hands lately whenever we are in public places.. sorry for the long message and grammar errors.. i really need your help and advice.Thank you
Hi Evalyn! Thanks for reaching out! You could try removing her from the situation, or even trying some proprioceptive activities (click here) during these situations to see if it helps center and calm her. It could be that she’s having a sensory overload of some sort, where she’s in need of an outlet for those sensory needs! Hope that helps!
Best,
Kalyn
Hi
My daughter is of 4 years. She listen to her name ..Some times she replies but mostly she wants to busy with tab or phone . She has not start speaking like a 4 year child yet. She get hyperactive when she supposed to do written work and get started crying , shouting ,but doesn’t want to write.
But she is good with learning or remembering things . She knows a lot of words in hindi and english ..Recognize the pictures and letters.She licks pillow I.e. cotton and hosiery fabrics. She can’t wait at a place..This is the issue.
Hi Chanchal,
That sounds like it’s been really tough for you guys. Sensory challenges definitely could be playing a role in some of what you’re seeing. Reaching out to her doctor about some of your concerns might be helpful too. We also have a free sensory workshop that could give you some helpful suggestions for calming. You can save your seat HERE. Let us know if you have any questions!
Best,
Andrea
My daughter has to wear socks at bed time as she says she doesn’t like tickly feet. She is obsessed with marks on the walls or bits of fluff saying they are spiders. She gets upset really easily and is very hard to calm down.
Hey Emma,
Thanks for reaching out. Wanting to wear socks at bed can definitely fall into the category of a sensory preference. We know lots of kids and adults that either love or can’t stand socks in bed! If she is also having challenges calming down then you might check out our sensory workshop to give you some ideas to help her calm. You can save your seat HERE.
Best,
Andrea
This sounds EXACTLY like my daughter she just turned 3 and she is almost right on with this. She doesn’t like loud noises unless she’s the one making them and she is extremely clumsy Always spills everything knocks it over accidentally. VERY ACTIVE climbs on my head basically. Her dad passed in March w0wq from Covid and she’s been even more unpredictable since. She’s always done some odd type things but more than ever before now. Very picky eater. She used to pull her hair out and bang her head on the ground or whatever was near her. She only let’s you hug her sometimes or cuddle sometimes but mostly she freaks out if you hold her longer than a few seconds. She speaks Very well and she’s very intelligent but I am a little concerned because my sister is extremely handicapped fully autistic and in diapers. My mom is high functioning autistic and so am I. Any Info helps.
Hey Tawnie,
Thanks for sharing your family’s experience with us! It sounds like our free sensory workshop might be helpful for your daughter. It touches on some great suggestions for sensory processing. You can save your seat HERE. Reach out with any questions!
Best,
Andrea
My husband and I have noticed our 4yo daughter will squeeze (like a hug but also around the waist, legs or upper body-hug but with arms down) to her younger 1yo sister CONSTANTLY through out the day. She isn’t jealous or trying to hurt her, we know she loves her and she gets sad when we have to tell her no more “hugs” because little sister has gotten frustrated and is crying with getting 5 hard squeezing hugs in 3 minutes. Everything online says she is jealous but I don’t believe it. I’m a mental health professional and have some exposure to ADHD (and a tiny bit of sensory stuff) just enough for my radar to be on. Pediatrician thinks it’s normal behavior but no lie I tell her 10+ times an hour ask day, every day for over a year to be easy and gentle and then eventually tell her no more touching because it’s too much for my 1yo. Before her little sister was born she would squeeze animals that she loves. Again NOT trying to hurt them, it’s almost like she can’t control the feeling of the love. She also has a VERY short attention span, very hard time listening and loves to crash and jump on my furniture. Ideas to get these sensory needs met so she can better function? Do you think this is a sensory issue or ADHD?
Hey Jen! Thanks for reaching out. It sounds like it very likely could be a sensory need that she is trying to get met, especially because she was doing this before her little sibling was born. You might try a bigger stuffed animal and offer that to her as an alternative to squeeze. There are also a ton of other options that would give her the deep pressure she seems to be needing. Our article on deep pressure might be a helpful place to start.
Best,
Andrea
Hej!
Thank you for the article.
I will pin it on my open to the public board about parenting.
About #10, that’s me.
When I was in my past twentys I get my auditory system (?; g-translate needs to much time now) tested.
“It’s fine!” the doctor said. I was pretty suprised about this!
Some years later I got the tipp to get diagnosed about ADD/ADHD.
And Bingo!, that’s it!
It is not my auditory system having problems. It’s my brain.
Just to keep in mind.
But I guess there will be other qirks and problems going with “not hearing” in such a case.
Hi Fuechsin,
Thanks so much for sharing your experience. That is so helpful to us and to other readers:) We’re so glad you found out what was going on with you!
Best,
Andrea
Hi I’m currently going through hell with my 3 and a half year old and he’s going through h/v but waiting on referral. Sorry but long post ahead, he developed normally up until about 2 and a half above average knew colours, animals, Could count to 20 , letters , alphabet etc . Lockdown started and in the space of a few weeks he went from knowing everything to barely saying a word , he’s forever running around our coffee table and hand clapping, fascinated by spinning wheel on his monster truck ,lost interest in all of his toys doesn’t want to play or interact , won’t respond to his name and started noticing him staring at the settee like something or someone is there it’s really scary and I can’t figure out what has happened to my so was wondering if anybody has gone through the same situation thanks .
Hey Donna,
We’re so sorry to hear that your son has been experiencing those challenges! It can be really frustrating to not know what’s going on! It’s great that you guys are getting a referral from the doctor! In the meantime, some sensory activities would be a great idea to try to engage him in. We have a great list of sensory ideas for toddlers that would be worth a try! Reach out to us if you have any questions!
Best,
Andrea