#421 - What is SPD?

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What is SPD?

In honor of Sensory Processing Disorder Awareness Month, I’m going back to the basics and diving into one of my all-time favorite topics: sensory processing.

In this episode, we’re talking about sensory modulation, over- and under-responsiveness, sensory craving, and all eight sensory systems. We’ll also look at how sensory differences can show up during everyday occupations like dressing, eating, toileting, learning, play, and transitions.

But I don’t want to stop at understanding sensory processing, I want to talk about how we can actually support it in practice. We’ll get into proactive sensory input, movement, heavy work, sensory spaces, and helping our clients build awareness of what their own bodies need.

One of my biggest reminders for therapists: instead of immediately asking, “How do I stop this behavior?” Let's get curious and ask, “What is their nervous system trying to tell me?”

Whether you’re newer to pediatric OT or just need a good sensory processing refresher, this episode will help you get back to the basics and think about sensory needs through a practical OT lens. This is also a great episode to share with families if they need help understanding sensory processing more!

Thanks for being here 🩷

If this episode sparked a clinical lightbulb moment, come find me at @allthingssensorypodcast and tell me what you’re noticing in your practice. 

We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3 

Links

Episode #368 - Ocular Motor Skills

Episode #372 - Crawling & Ocular Motor Skills

Episode #225 - ADHD Tips, Tricks & Info

Episode #34 - What is Auditory Processing Disorder?

Episode #367 - Auditory Processing vs Attention Issues

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4KKYDlcOaHLonM8oagThpu

Sensory Preferences Checklist

BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science & art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views & opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties & what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.

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