Proprioceptive Input for Hyper and Hyposensitivity

A sensory diet of proprioceptive input can make a difference for children with ASD or other sensory processing challenges. In this post, we're sharing ideas for individuals who present with hyposensitivity or hypersensitivity.

What is Proprioception

Proprioception is essentially our awareness of our body and our movements in space. When an individual has higher sensory needs, they may interact with their environment differently and have difficulty with their proprioception. When a child is hyposensitive, it means that they won't be stimulated enough by sensations in the environment, and show limited awareness of their body in space. For example, they may seek out items to chew, appear low energy, show limited response to pain, or lean on walls or people. When a child is hypersensitive, they may not be able to tolerate bright lights, loud sounds, certain smells, certain foods or tactile textures, or certain physical touch. Children with sensory challenges will often benefit from redirection to safer ways to seek or escape sensory input.

Hypersensitivity

A child who is hypersensitive to their environment might be triggered by stimuli in their environment because it is as if their senses are working too acutely. They might benefit from tinted glasses, desensitization programs for certain foods, or headphones depending on their specific sensitivities. They might also benefit from breaks if they are in a loud environment such as a lunchroom or playground that has a variety of stimuli happening at the same time.

Hyposensitivity

A child with hyposensitivity to their surroundings may have a reduced awareness of stimuli as if their senses are not functioning sharply enough. This can lead to unsafe behaviors like bumping into adults or walls or mouthing objects like rocks or toys. They might also need supervision concerning pain and temperature, as they may not independently realize if they are hurt or overheated. Providing them with a chewy, a sensory tool available in various shapes and strengths, can help replace unsafe mouthing behaviors.

Proprioceptive Movement Ideas

1. Climbing/Heavy Work: Engaging in activities like climbing playground equipment or pushing, pulling, and lifting heavy objects can stimulate a child's major muscle groups. Wheelbarrow walks, where an adult holds the child's legs while they walk on their hands, are excellent for providing upper body input and safely allowing the child to be upside down. Wall Push-Ups are all an effective way to engage large muscle groups.

2. Structured Directions: Giving clear instructions such as "hop like a frog," "run to the stop sign and back as quickly as possible," or "stomp 5 times" can effectively help a child concentrate and safely receive input. Simply saying "go play and get some energy out" may not be as effective or safe. The child can control the intensity of their actions, which can enhance their self-awareness.

3. Log Rolls/Tunnels: Wrapping a child in a blanket and having them log roll across it can provide comfort and pressure. Log rolls down a gentle slope can also offer sensory input. Crawling through a tunnel or using a Body Sock can help a child better understand their body boundaries.

4. Roll/Bounce on Yoga Ball: Bouncing on a yoga ball or rolling over it on their stomach can provide physical and proprioceptive input. Allowing the child to choose the song you sing together while they bounce, or when to start and stop, can enhance their focus and body control.

5. Wagon/Swing: Using a wagon or swing can provide movement input through various speeds and directions, such as fast and slow, forward and backward, or side to side. It's important to discourage circular swinging or excessive speed, as it can become overstimulating and counterproductive.

6. Movement Breaks: Creating an obstacle course or a playlist of structured movement songs can be beneficial for a child who is active but unfocused. Ending a movement break with a slower, calming song before the child returns to their classroom or activity can help reduce their energy level.

7. Deep Pressure: Children often request squeezes or rocking for sensory input. A child seeking pressure might benefit from a bear hug, a weighted vest or blanket, or periodic squeezes such as head, arm, leg squeezes, or a jaw massage. When applying pressure, avoid squeezing a child's joints directly; instead, apply pressure to larger bones like the shin or forearm to prevent injury. A child seeking the rocking motion may benefit from flexible seating to allow for more movement.

There are many other ways to provide sensory input or help a child who is overstimulated by their environment! Please reach out to myself or your child's therapist for more ideas, or if you have questions!