A beginner-friendly guide to how the sensory systems work, what sensory processing differences look like, and practical ways to cope and thrive.
What Is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is how our brains take in, organize, and respond to information from the world and our bodies. For most people, this happens automatically. For those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or sensory differences, these messages may be overwhelming, too faint, or hard to organize.
The Eight Sensory Systems
Most people know about the five classic senses, but sensory processing actually involves eight systems:
- Visual: Sight and how we process light, color, and movement.
- Auditory: Sounds, tone, and background noise.
- Tactile: Touch, textures, temperature, pain.
- Olfactory: Smell.
- Gustatory: Taste.
- Vestibular: Balance and movement (inner ear).
- Proprioceptive: Body position, muscles, and joints.
- Interoceptive: Internal signals (hunger, thirst, bathroom, emotions).
Sensory Profiles: How SPD Can Show Up
People may process sensations in different ways. SPD isn’t one-size-fits-all — it can show up as:
| Profile | Description | Everyday Example |
|---|---|---|
| Over-Responsive | Senses feel too strong; can lead to avoidance. | Covers ears at loud sounds, avoids certain fabrics. |
| Under-Responsive | Senses register weakly; child/adult may seem “tuned out.” | Doesn’t notice name being called, slow to respond to pain. |
| Sensory Seeking | Craves extra input to feel regulated. | Jumps, spins, touches everything, craves strong flavors. |
| Mixed | Different systems respond differently. | Seeks movement but avoids bright lights or noise. |
Over-Responsive
Senses feel too strong; can lead to avoidance.
Example: Covers ears at loud sounds.
Under-Responsive
Senses register weakly; may seem “tuned out.”
Example: Doesn’t notice name being called.
Sensory Seeking
Craves extra input to feel regulated.
Example: Loves jumping, spinning, strong tastes.
Mixed
Different systems respond differently.
Example: Seeks movement but avoids bright lights.
Quick Coping Strategies by Sense
Here are starter strategies families and therapists often find helpful. Try them, notice what works, and adjust to the individual.
| Sense | Try This |
|---|---|
| Auditory | Noise-cancelling headphones, quiet corners, rhythm activities. |
| Visual | Dim lights, sunglasses, visual schedules, calming images. |
| Tactile | Fidgets, sensory bins, clothing without tags, weighted lap pad. |
| Vestibular | Rockers, swings, spinning chairs, balance boards. |
| Proprioceptive | Heavy work (carrying groceries, pushing walls), compression clothing. |
| Interoceptive | Mindfulness check-ins, body awareness games, regular snack/drink breaks. |
Where to Go Next
- See our First Steps After Diagnosis guide for emotional and practical next steps.
- Explore our Sensory Room Guide for environment-friendly setups.
- Therapists just starting out? Our On-the-Go Therapist Kit has essentials you can bring anywhere.