Sensory regulation (also called self-regulation) is the ability to manage one's level of alertness and emotional state in response to sensory input so that behavior and attention are appropriate for the situation. A well-regulated child can:

Stay calm and focused during a classroom lesson

Transition smoothly between activities

Tolerate unexpected sensory experiences (a fire alarm, a scratchy shirt tag) without becoming overwhelmed

Adjust their energy level — calming down for bedtime or revving up for recess

Children with sensory regulation difficulties may have trouble maintaining an appropriate level of alertness. They may swing between being "too high" (overexcited, hyperactive, anxious) and "too low" (sluggish, inattentive, withdrawn), or they may get stuck in one state and have difficulty shifting.

Research has identified several patterns of sensory processing differences. A child may show one or more of these patterns:

Sensory over-responsivity (hypersensitivity) — the brain reacts too strongly to sensory input. The child may become distressed, anxious, or aggressive in response to ordinary sensations such as certain sounds, textures, lights, or being touched. This is the most common pattern identified in children with sensory processing difficulties. Research shows that sensory over-responsivity is associated with elevated anxiety.

Sensory under-responsivity (hyposensitivity) — the brain does not register sensory input efficiently. The child may seem unaware of pain, temperature changes, or being called by name. They may appear passive, slow to respond, or "in their own world." Research links this pattern to higher ADHD-related behaviors.

Sensory seeking/craving — the child actively seeks out unusually large amounts of sensory input, such as constant movement, jumping, crashing, mouthing objects, touching everything, or making loud noises. This pattern is also associated with higher ADHD-related behaviors.

Sensory-based motor disorder — difficulty with balance, coordination, and motor planning due to poor processing of vestibular and proprioceptive information

Sensory discrimination disorder — difficulty telling the difference between similar sensory inputs (e.g., distinguishing shapes by touch, telling similar sounds apart)

Many children show a combination of these patterns, and over half of children identified with sensory processing difficulties display more than one type.

An OT is a specially trained person who works with children to make daily life easier. Here's how they help with sensory processing:

Finding out what's tricky. The OT starts by learning what kinds of sensory things are hard for you. Maybe certain textures bother you, or maybe you need to move around a lot to feel comfortable.

Fun activities with a purpose. The OT uses activities like swinging, climbing, playing with different textures, or using special tools like weighted blankets or therapy balls. These activities help your brain get better at handling sensory information.

Learning to self-regulate. "Self-regulation" means being able to keep your body and feelings in a calm, "just right" zone. The OT teaches you strategies — like deep breathing, squeezing a stress ball, or taking movement breaks — so you can manage how you feel when things get overwhelming.

Creating a "sensory diet." This isn't about food! A sensory diet is a personalized plan of sensory activities built into your daily routine. It might include things like jumping on a trampoline before homework or listening to calming music during transitions. These activities help keep your brain balanced throughout the day.

Helping at home and school. The OT also works with your parents and teachers to make changes in your environment — like using noise-canceling headphones in a loud classroom or adjusting lighting — so you can focus and participate more easily.

Over time, occupational therapy can help your child feel more comfortable, do better in school, and enjoy everyday activities with less stress!