✓NDIS-registered provider✓Paediatric early-intervention focus✓In-home, in-clinic & telehealth
Understanding Sensory Processing
What is sensory processing difficulty?
Sensory processing is how the brain takes in and responds to information from the senses — sound, touch, movement, sight, taste and smell. Some children are over-responsive (easily overwhelmed by noise, textures or crowds) and some are under-responsive or sensory-seeking (craving movement, pressure or intense input).
Sensory differences are real and can affect play, eating, sleep, learning and behaviour. They often occur alongside autism or ADHD, but can also stand on their own. Occupational therapy helps children understand and manage their sensory needs.
Signs by age
Signs of sensory differences, by age
All children have sensory preferences. It becomes a support need when sensory reactions get in the way of everyday life — play, meals, sleep, school or family outings. These are common signs, not a diagnosis.
👶Babies & toddlers
- Very distressed by baths, nappy changes or textures
- Startles easily at sounds
- Dislikes being held, or craves tight cuddles
- Extremely picky with food textures
- Constant movement, or rarely still
🧒Preschool (3–5)
- Covers ears at everyday sounds
- Avoids messy or tactile play
- Seeks intense movement (spinning, crashing)
- Meltdowns in busy or noisy places
- Trouble with clothing tags, seams or shoes
🧑School age
- Overwhelmed in classrooms or assemblies
- Fidgety, or leans and falls off the chair
- Poor balance or clumsiness
- Very high or very low pain response
- Difficulty settling to sleep
🎒Any age
- Strong reactions to smells or bright light
- Gagging at food smells or textures
- Chewing on clothes or objects
- Difficulty with haircuts or teeth-brushing
- Big emotions after sensory overload
Sensory differences look different in every child, and one sensitivity on its own is usually fine. An occupational therapist can assess your child’s sensory profile and build practical strategies. Sensory differences often occur alongside autism or ADHD.
Getting started
When and how to seek help
If sensory reactions are affecting daily life, ask your GP or child health nurse for a referral to an occupational therapist, who can complete a sensory assessment and build a plan with your family.
Under the NDIS early childhood approach, children under 9 can access support based on functional need — a diagnosis isn’t required to begin.
How we help
How Daar supports sensory processing
Occupational therapy is the core support, using sensory strategies and a personalised set of activities so your child feels regulated at home, school and out in the world.
Funding
Sensory processing and the NDIS
Sensory support may be funded under the NDIS where there’s a significant functional impact on daily life, and it is often part of a plan alongside autism or ADHD. Our team can help you understand your options and use your plan.
Not sure where to start?
Answer a few quick questions and we’ll match your child with the right support — and our team will be in touch.
Find the right support →FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is sensory processing disorder a real diagnosis?
Sensory differences are real and can significantly affect daily life. While ‘sensory processing disorder’ isn’t a standalone medical diagnosis, occupational therapists assess and support sensory needs effectively.
Which therapy helps sensory issues?
Occupational therapy is the main support — using sensory strategies and activities to help your child feel regulated and take part in everyday life.
Are sensory issues a sign of autism?
Sensory differences are common in autism and ADHD, but not every child with sensory needs is autistic. An assessment helps clarify the full picture.
Is sensory support covered by the NDIS?
It may be, where there’s a meaningful functional impact — often as part of a broader plan. Our team can help you check.
What is a sensory diet?
A ‘sensory diet’ is a personalised set of activities an occupational therapist recommends to help a child stay calm, focused and regulated through the day.
Last reviewed 16 July 2026Reviewed by Daar’s clinical teamGeneral information — not a diagnosis or medical advice
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