When a child's sensory processing is atypical, her brain is not wired like everyone else's. Kids with SPD process information from the senses differently, think differently, and respond differently to everyday sensations. They're often struggling to fit into systems created by people whose brains operate a more neurotypically, which can make organizing time, tasks, and possessions very challenging. As a sensory smart parent, your job is to honor your child's differently wired

Kids with sensory issues can quickly become overwhelmed at school, which is a very stimulating place where many demands are placed on them. In a new environment—new school or new classroom—they can struggle to manage their fears and discomfort and take more time to acclimate than you would hope. Their anxiety might soar as they think about all the things that could make them uncomfortable in the classroom, the lunchroom, the playground, and so on. Here are seven ways to help

Concerned about how your child with sensory processing disorder will function at school this year? Why not consider a letter to your child’s teacher or teachers to ensure that they know of your son or daughter’s sensory issues and how best to support your sensory child at school? Even if your child has a IEP, these documents only provide a quick snapshot of the kinds of issues sensory kids deal with in classrooms, on the playground, in the gym or art or music rooms, in the ca

Many kids have already started the new school year; others are gearing up to do so. I know many of you are nervous about the changes this year. Be sure to pull that copy of RAISING A SENSORY SMART CHILD off your shelf (and pick up a copy for yourself–even for your child’s teacher!) and do take a look at our chapters on advocating for your child at school, organizational issues, and practical solutions for everyday problems. The book is chock full of practical strategies that