The Third in the Processing Series
This is the final blog in the Child Processing Disorders series. As a speech-language pathologist, I am much more knowledgeable and experienced in auditory and language processing disorders, but I want to introduce you to sensory processing and visual processing disorders. If you suspect your child might have problems in one of these areas, I hope this blog will open the door to your search for information.
Sensory Processing
Sometimes, sensory processing is referred to as “sensory integration.” Every day, we take in information from our senses: hearing, vision, taste, touch, and movement. That information is then turned into responses. A child who has a sensory processing disorder (SPD) has difficulty taking in information through his or her senses and responding appropriately. For example, a child may not be able to tolerate certain foods, tastes, or textures, or even tolerate wearing clothes. Processing usually happens so automatically that we take this ability for granted. So, it’s easy to imagine how an impairment in sensory processing would have a significant impact on daily functioning.
Sensitivity to sound or loud noises is another good example of a sensory processing difficulty. If a child becomes frantic when he hears a siren, he might have difficulty processing sensory information that he hears. Other behaviors common to SPD are poor coordination, short attention span, and difficulty sitting or standing still. Often children with SPD don’t like to be touched. They may be very uncomfortable in situations where there is a lot of visual or auditory activity because they are over-stimulated by what they see and/or hear. So, even getting dressed or taking a trip to the mall can be challenging.
And, yes, sensory processing disorder shares behavioral characteristics with other disorders, such as auditory processing disorder, ADHD, and autism. Therefore, a proper evaluation is necessary to get to the proper diagnosis. An occupational therapist (OT) is the professional who determines the presence and nature of sensory processing deficit. If you think your child might have sensory processing disorder, you are encouraged to discuss your concerns with your child’s doctor and to ask for a referral to an occupational therapist for a consult and/or evaluation.
Visual Processing
Like auditory processing, visual processing is a “brain thing.” It has nothing to do with being able to see; children with visual processing deficits can see normally. Visual processing refers to the brain’s ability to correctly process information received though the visual channel.
Many children are referred for a visual processing evaluation because of problems in school, especially difficulty reading. A child may be have problems looking at the board and then adjusting visually back down to his paper on the desk; sometimes words seem to “move” on the page, or the child has trouble finding or keeping his place when reading. The lines on the page may flip flop or jiggle. Letters or words may be reversed or confused. There may be physical symptoms, such as headache or exhaustion when reading or writing. Of course, there may be other symptoms, so if you are concerned that your child might have vision related problems, make an appointment with an optometrist.
An optometrist is the professional who first determines that your child can see clearly. If not, glasses may be prescribed as the first course of action to see if that takes care of the problem. If corrected vision is not the problem, the optometrist may conduct a visual processing evaluation. The goal of the evaluation is to identify problem areas and to treat the visual processing deficits. The goals and objectives of the treatment will be determined by the diagnosing professional.
Postscript
As I indicated at the beginning of this blog, I am not an expert or authority regarding sensory or visual processing disorders. But, as a speech-language pathologist working with children, I have suspected or observed these deficits in children many times. They are very real and can be very problematic for children and families. I hope this gives you some insight into these processing disorders and some direction to seek additional information and advise.
Your child’s doctor is always a good starting point. Discuss your concerns, ask questions, and ask for a referral to the appropriate professional if necessary. You are your child’s best advocate and being an informed advocate is powerful!
Good luck! Even though I don’t work with sensory and visual processing disorders, if you would like to talk, please feel free to call me at 940-704-4324.