We receive sensory input through sights, sounds, touch, tastes, smell, movement and balance, body position and muscle control.  For some of us, when we receive these sensory inputs it can shake us to our core.  For others, we don't even notice those sensory inputs.

How we receive these sensory inputs can affect our daily functions.  It can affect how we socialize with other people, even those that we love.   It can affect how we act in class, at home, in the work place or out in the community.  It may hinder us from wanting to go out on one of those community outings.   At times, it may hinder how someone reacts or doesn't react with their emotions.  All of this can ultimately diminish someone's self-esteem.

Individuals who have sensory processing disorder ("SPD") may fall under the autism spectrum, be diagnosed with SPD alone, or be diagnosed with SPD as well as other developmental differences or mental health diagnoses, including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety, Fragile X Disorder, or ADHD. 1 in 20 children exhibit symptoms of sensory processing disorder.  The extra readings in this month's newsletter will hopefully help you while supporting or working with individuals that may have challenges due to sensory sensitivities. 

Check out this clip to learn more about sensory processing disorder.