An Introduction to Understanding and Supporting Sensory Differences

Is your child awaiting an Autism assessment? Or are they showing signs of Autistic traits and you would like to learn more to help you understand how better to support them? Are you a professional looking to support a child / children in your care?

Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) Parent Carer forums have teamed together to deliver a variety of workshops to provide information, support and practical guidance to help you on your journey. This workshop is a face-to-face session focusing on Sensory Differences.

To book a funded place on this workshop you MUST live in North Somerset.

North Somerset Parent Carers Working Together

• 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.

Host or Publisher North Somerset Parent Carers Working Together