Is Your Child Sensory Defensive? Signs and Solutions
Imagine a world where every sound feels too loud, every touch too sharp, and everyday tasks like getting dressed or going outside feel like a battle.
By Brian Comly
“For people with sensory defensiveness, it’s not about disliking certain sensations but being neurologically primed to perceive these sensations as threatening or painful.”
— Temple Grandin
Imagine a world where every sound feels too loud, every touch too sharp, and everyday tasks like getting dressed or going outside feel like a battle.
For sensory defensive children, this is their reality. It’s not a matter of simple discomfort; their nervous system is wired to perceive these normal sensations as overwhelming or even painful. Sensory defensiveness — where common sounds, textures, or movements become threats — can make daily life a challenge.
My son’s behavior during his first meals gave us a glimpse into this struggle. One hand would feed him, while the other stayed raised, refusing to touch any mess. He avoided sand, water, and loud environments, seeking refuge in clinging to me when things felt too much.
