SENSORY NEEDS AND EVERYDAY SUPPORT AT HOME AND SCHOOL
ADHD Parent Support Series - Part 9
Sensory differences can affect far more than whether a child likes a particular sound, texture or piece of clothing.
For some children with ADHD, noise, touch, movement, light, smells, crowded spaces or the combined sensory load of a busy day can affect concentration, emotions, behaviour and how much capacity they have left for everyday demands.
Other children may actively seek sensory input through movement, chewing, touching, fidgeting or strong physical sensations.
This parent guide helps families look for patterns rather than assuming that every difficult moment is 'behaviour'.
It explores sound, clothing and touch, movement, visual load, after-school recovery, school adjustments and helping children gradually understand and communicate their own sensory needs.
It also looks at the important difference between buying sensory equipment and choosing a support because it solves a particular problem.
A Sensory Support Map is included so parents can record what happens before difficult moments, what the child appears to seek or avoid, what helps, and whether the same patterns are appearing at school.
The aim is not to create a world without discomfort. It is to notice when sensory load is taking so much of a child's capacity that a small, thoughtful adjustment could make everyday participation easier.
Space to Breathe Therapy
ADHD Parent Support Series - Part 9
