Common Signs of Sensory Processing Issues in Children (& What Parents Can Do)

You've probably had that moment. Your child melts down over a clothing label that's "too scratchy." They cover their ears at birthday parties. They can't sit still no matter what you try. And you're left wondering - is this just a phase, or is something else going on?

If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. Sensory processing differences are incredibly common in children, and many parents are navigating this without a roadmap. The good news? Once you understand what's happening for your child, there's a lot you can do to help them feel more comfortable every single day - including wearable sensory tools like Squiddy's weighted hoodies for kids, designed to provide gentle, calming pressure your child can carry with them wherever they go.

What Is Sensory Processing, Exactly?

Sensory processing is how our brains take in information from the world around us, through touch, sound, smell, taste, sight, and movement, and make sense of it all. Most of us do this automatically, without even thinking about it.

But for some kids, the brain processes sensory information differently. It might be turned up too loud, making everyday experiences feel genuinely overwhelming. Or it might not register strongly enough, leaving a child constantly seeking out more intense sensory input to feel calm and grounded.

This is often called Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), though it can also show up alongside ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Australian research suggests that between 1 in 6 and 1 in 20 children experience significant sensory processing difficulties - so if this sounds like your kid, you are very much in good company.

Common Signs Your Child Might Have Sensory Processing Differences

Every child is different, but there are some common patterns worth knowing about. Sensory processing differences tend to show up in one of two ways: oversensitivity (where the brain is overloaded by sensory input) or undersensitivity (where the brain is constantly seeking more).

Signs of Oversensitivity (Hypersensitivity)

• Gets distressed by clothing tags, seams, or certain fabrics

• Covers their ears or becomes upset in loud or noisy environments

• Finds busy, unpredictable spaces like shopping centres or parties really overwhelming

• Is fussy about food textures, temperatures, or strong smells

• Becomes anxious, irritable, or exhausted after a big day out

Signs of Undersensitivity (Hyposensitivity)

• Seems to be in constant motion - running, jumping, bouncing, always touching things

• Has a high pain threshold and doesn't seem bothered by bumps or scrapes

• Craves firm hugs, heavy blankets, or being squished under a pillow

• Has trouble focusing unless they're moving or doing something with their hands

• Fidgets constantly, chews on clothing or pencils, or seeks out intense physical input

If you're nodding along to more than a few of these, it might be worth chatting with your child's GP or an occupational therapist. Getting a proper assessment can make a real difference - not just for your child, but for the whole family.

How Sensory Differences Affect Everyday Life

For kids with sensory processing differences, everyday moments that seem simple to others can be genuinely exhausting. Getting dressed in the morning. Sitting through a school lesson. Eating lunch in a noisy cafeteria. By the time they get home, many of these kids are completely depleted - and that often shows up as meltdowns, shutdowns, or big emotions that seem to come from nowhere.

As a parent, it can feel like you're constantly troubleshooting. And honestly? That's exhausting too.

The important thing to remember is that your child isn't being difficult. Their nervous system is working overtime, and what they need most is support - not correction.

What Actually Helps? Practical Tools for Sensory Kids

Once you understand your child's sensory profile, there are some really practical things you can do to support them throughout the day.

Deep Pressure Therapy

One of the most well-researched tools for sensory regulation is deep pressure - gentle, firm input to the body that helps calm the nervous system. Think of the feeling of a firm hug, a heavy blanket, or a long squeeze. For many kids (and adults) with sensory processing differences or ADHD, deep pressure is genuinely calming and grounding.

Research has shown that deep pressure therapy can improve focus, reduce anxiety, and help children feel more settled throughout the day. And it doesn't have to come from a clinical setting - it can be part of your child's everyday life.

Wearable Sensory Solutions

One of the most exciting developments in sensory support is wearable sensory tools - comfort and regulation your child can carry with them wherever they go. That's exactly what Squiddy's kids weighted hoodies were built for.

Each Squiddy hoodie has built-in squishies sewn right into the cuffs - soft, satisfying little sensory fidgets that kids can squeeze, squish, and play with discreetly, without pulling out a separate toy or drawing attention in class. The hoodie itself is made from a heavier fabric that wraps around the body with that gentle deep pressure feeling - like a warm, cosy hug throughout the day.

For kids who struggle with sensory overload at school, at social events, or just getting through a big day - having that sensory support built into what they're wearing can be a game-changer. It's calming, it's fun, and it just looks like a hoodie.

If you're weighing up your options, we've also put together a helpful comparison of fidget toys vs fidget clothing that's worth a read before you decide.

Build a Calm-Down Routine at Home

Giving your child a dedicated calm-down space at home - somewhere cosy, low-stimulation, and completely theirs - can really help them self-regulate when things get too much. A beanbag, some soft lighting, their favourite sensory tools, and a Squiddy hoodie to curl up in can go a long way.

Consistent routines also help sensory kids feel safe and prepared. Warning them before transitions ("We're leaving in five minutes"), using visual schedules, and keeping evenings low-key can all reduce the sensory load over time.

Talk to an Occupational Therapist

If you suspect your child has significant sensory processing differences, an occupational therapist (OT) is the best place to start. OTs are trained to assess sensory needs and build what's called a "sensory diet" - a structured plan of activities and tools that help a child stay regulated throughout the day. Your GP can refer you, or you can search for a paediatric OT through organisations like Early Start Australia or the Raising Children Network.

You Are Not Alone in This

Parenting a child with sensory differences can sometimes feel really isolating. But there's a growing, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable community of parents navigating exactly the same thing - and more tools and resources available now than ever before.

Whether you're just starting to connect the dots or you've been managing sensory needs for years, the most important thing is that your child feels understood, supported, and comfortable. That's everything. You've got this.

For more on supporting an anxious or sensory-seeking child, our blog on how to help an anxious child is a great place to start. And when you're ready to give your child sensory support they can wear every single day, explore the full Squiddy kids collection - designed with comfort, calm, and a whole lot of fun in mind.

Disclaimer: Squiddy hoodies are not a medical device or treatment for ADHD, autism, anxiety, or any other condition. Their benefits are based on customer experiences and general research on deep pressure therapy, not clinical trials specific to this product. If you are seeking medical or therapeutic support for your child, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

 

References:

Raising Children Network. Sensory processing difficulties. Raising Children Network. Raising Children Network

Early Start Australia. (2022) What is sensory processing disorder? Early Start Australia. Early Start Australia

Kid Sense Child Development. (2025) Sensory processing disorder (SPD). Kid Sense Child Development. Kid Sense Child Development

One Quiet Mind. (2026). Top sensory tools for stress relief 2026. One Quiet Mind. One Quiet Mind