Sensory Processing 101: The Ultimate Beginner’s Hub
Understand the eight sensory systems, how sensory differences show up, and simple first steps that help. This OT‑informed hub links to our best guides, room setups, tools & toys, and printables.
What Is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is how the brain receives, organizes, and responds to information from the body and environment. For some people, these signals can feel too strong, too faint, or hard to organize—leading to overwhelm or missed cues. Sensory differences are not “bad”; with understanding and the right supports, they can become strengths.
The Eight Sensory Systems
Beyond the classic five, sensory processing involves eight systems. Click into each system’s hub for tools, tips, and deeper guides.
Sensory Profiles: Common Patterns
People experience sensations differently. These patterns can guide which environments and tools help most.
| Profile | Description | Everyday Example |
|---|---|---|
| Over-Responsive | Input feels too strong; may avoid sensations. | Covers ears at loud sounds; avoids scratchy fabrics. |
| Under-Responsive | Signals register weakly; may seem “tuned out.” | Slow to notice name being called or pain. |
| Sensory Seeking | Craves extra input to feel regulated. | Jumps, spins, chews; touches everything. |
| Mixed | Different systems respond differently. | Seeks movement but avoids bright light/noise. |
Over-Responsive
Input feels too strong; may avoid sensations.
Example: Covers ears in noisy spaces.
Under-Responsive
Signals register weakly; may seem “tuned out.”
Example: Doesn’t notice name being called.
Sensory Seeking
Craves extra input to feel regulated.
Example: Loves spinning/jumping; craves strong flavors.
Mixed
Different systems respond differently.
Example: Seeks movement but avoids bright lights.
Quick Coping Strategies by Sense
Try simple, low-risk ideas first. Notice what helps, then build a routine around it.
| Sense | Try This |
|---|---|
| Auditory | Noise‑canceling headphones; quiet corners; rhythm/beat activities. See more → |
| Visual | Dim lamps; avoid flicker; visual schedules; calming images. See more → |
| Tactile | Fidgets; sensory bins; tag‑free clothing; weighted lap pad. See more → |
| Vestibular | Rockers, swings, gentle spinning; balance paths. See more → |
| Proprioceptive | Heavy work (carry, push, pull); wall push‑ups; compression wear. See more → |
| Interoceptive | Mindfulness check‑ins; hydration/snack timers; emotion‑body mapping. See more → |
Auditory
Headphones; quiet corners; rhythm.
Visual
Dim lights; visual schedules.
Tactile
Fidgets; bins; tag‑free clothes.
Vestibular
Rockers; swings; balance paths.
Proprioceptive
Heavy work; compression wear.
Interoceptive
Mindfulness; snack timers.
Getting Support
When to See an OT
Consider an occupational therapist (OT) if daily life is consistently stressful—sleep, school, mealtime, dressing, or play. OTs match strategies and environments to sensory needs.
Ask your pediatrician for an OT referral or search local pediatric OT clinics.
Starter Printables
Grab our free basics and set up quick wins at home or school.
Safety Notes
Always supervise new tools or movement activities. Follow age/weight guidelines for items like swings, weighted blankets, and chewables. If in doubt, consult an OT.
Explore More Hubs
Sensory Inputs
Deep dives for each sense: what it is, how it shows up, strategies, and vetted tools.
Sensory‑Friendly Homes
Room‑by‑room setups, calm‑down corners, lighting, sound, and organization.
Tools & Toys
Weighted blankets, swings, fidgets, light‑up toys—OT‑informed picks and how‑tos.
Daily Routines
Bedtime, mealtime, school transitions, regulation breaks, visual schedules.