Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Profile: A Guide for Parents
- Charlie O.
- Jul 28
- 3 min read
Every child experiences the world in their own unique way, especially when it comes to sensory input. For children with autism or developmental delays, sensory differences can greatly impact how they feel, behave, and function in daily life.
As caregivers, when we understand our child’s sensory profile, we can better support their regulation, focus, and happiness through intentional routines, environments, and activities.
Let’s explore what a sensory profile is, how to identify your child’s, and practical tips you can start using today.
What Is a Sensory Profile?
A sensory profile describes how your child responds to sensory information in the world around them - like sounds, textures, lights, smells, movement, or pressure. It can help explain why certain things feel “too much” or “not enough” for them.
There are four main sensory processing types, based on the Dunn Model of Sensory Processing:
Sensory Seekers – crave sensory input and may be constantly moving, touching, or making noise.
Sensory Avoiders – may become overwhelmed by too much input and try to escape or avoid it.
Sensory Sensitive – notice even small amounts of input and may be easily distracted or upset.
Low Registration – may miss or take longer to respond to sensory input; often appear low energy or inattentive.
Every child is unique and may show traits across more than one category.
How to Figure Out Your Child’s Sensory Profile
Start by observing your child in everyday situations. Ask yourself:
Do they seem to crave movement or deep pressure? (Sensory Seeker)
Do they avoid certain textures, sounds, or busy environments? (Sensory Avoider)
Do they notice small noises or lights that others don’t? (Sensory Sensitive)
Do they seem to miss cues or appear unbothered by messes, noise, or pain? (Low Registration)
You can also complete a sensory checklist or talk to a professional (like a BCBA or OT) to get a clearer picture.
Tips for Parents
Meet them where they are. Some kids need more input, others need less. Honor their threshold.
Use sensory supports proactively. It’s easier to prevent meltdowns than calm them once they’ve started.
Create a sensory-friendly environment. That might mean fidget tools, headphones, flexible seating, or quiet spaces.
Build regulation breaks into routines. These can be movement breaks, calm-down corners, or heavy work tasks.
Communicate with visuals or routines. Sensory overload often makes verbal processing harder. Schedules and choice boards help.
Activity Ideas Based on Sensory Profiles
Here are some targeted activities to try at home based on your child’s sensory needs:
✨ Sensory Seekers:
Trampoline or jumping games
Dancing with scarves or music
Chewy or crunchy snacks
Playdough, slime, or kinetic sand
Obstacle courses with climbing, pushing, and pulling
🚪 Sensory Avoiders:
Weighted lap pads or blankets
Soft lighting and noise-canceling headphones
Calming activities like water painting or puzzles
Familiar, soft clothing without tags
Slow, predictable routines
👀 Sensory Sensitive:
Dimmed lights or sunglasses
Quiet time in a tent or cozy corner
Low-scent environment
Calm background music or nature sounds
Slow exposure to new textures or spaces
🐢 Low Registration:
Bright, high-contrast visuals
Vibrating toothbrushes or massage tools
Strong scents during sensory play
Visual timers and cues to increase alertness
Structured, hands-on learning activities
💛 Every Child Deserves to Feel Regulated and Understood
Understanding your child’s sensory profile isn’t about labeling; it’s about unlocking strategies that support their growth, peace, and connection.
At TLC Behavioral Consulting, we work closely with families to build sensory-smart routines and behavior plans tailored to each child’s needs. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
📞 Contact us at (360) 903-3195
📧 Email: info@tlcbehavioralconsulting.com
🌐 Learn more at www.tlcbehavioralconsulting.com
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