Sensory Support

I want to share a wonderful resource for you to learn more about your child’s sensory needs and practical supports you can provide. Raising a Sensory Smart Child (by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske) is a family-friendly book that explains the sensory systems and how sensory processing impacts child development and behavior. Difficulties with sensory processing can definitely cause frustrations for a child…and thus for their caregivers. This book offers lots and LOTS of ideas families and teachers can implement immediately with no training and little/no cost.

The book is written by an OT (occupational therapist) and mother of a child with sensory challenges and is an informative read for anyone looking for new strategies to address difficult behaviors that stem from sensory needs. The book addresses specific routines (e.g., toileting, mealtimes, or sleep) as well as sensory-related behaviors that challenge both your child and you (e.g., noise sensitivity, speech delay, and tantrums). This is a terrific resource for practical, everyday strategies that you can use at home, in the community, or at childcare. In addition to page after page of suggestions to meet specific child needs, the authors provide a comprehensive list of online resources and toys/equipment. Check it out!