An introduction to understanding and supporting sensory difference.

• What are Sensory Needs?

Children can be over/under responsive at different times or in different situations. Sensory processing (sometimes called 'sensory integration' or 'SI') is a term that refers to the way the brain receives messages from the sensory receptors and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioural responses. Sensory responses are very individual and can vary minute by minute.

• How does it present?

Sensory processing needs present in two ways (some children/adults will fluctuate between to two)

Avoider – When you are an avoider you will stay away from sensory experiences and sensory input can be distressing and painful

Seeker – May seek out sensory experiences, fidgeting and may seek out sensory experiences from their environment.

• What is the connection with executive functioning?

Sensory processing difficulties can have a direct impact on executive functioning. When a child has difficulty regulating their sensory processing it is very difficult for them to access other skills such as organizing, planning and attention.

• How can we best support our children with sensory processing difficulties ?

The workshop will give you strategies that you can use with your child. Alongside this by gaining an understanding of the basics of sensory processing, it’s possible to gain understanding about behaviors and therefore build your own strategies to help your child.

This workshop will be delivered by an SEND professional and an experienced SEND parent carer.

This is a free training event for parent carers of children with additional needs and/or disabilities within North Somerset. This event is also open to professionals who work with children/young people with additional needs and/or disabilities in North Somerset. Priority on place allocation will be given based on the criteria above.

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Host or Publisher North Somerset Parent Carers Working Together