Question:
My child has special needs with sensory sensitivities, which effects his behavior at home, at school and out in public. How can I help others, like their teachers, siblings, and coaches understand what it is like for them-and that my child is often responding to external events as stressful, and is not merely misbehaving?
Answer:
Our modern world’s tremendous swirl of visual, auditory, tactile, and olfactory sensory experiences is an annoyance to most of us.
Most people can tune them out or remove themselves from unpleasant situations. But – as empathetic as we try to be – we can’t truly understand how overwhelming this cacophony of sights, sounds, touch and smells can be to your special needs child.
It’s tough to deal with everyday life when you are acutely sensitive to noise, crowds, bright lights, even bothersome clothing. What if you are hearing impaired or suffer from vision loss? Could you get through the day?
It’s difficult for many of us to identify with these sensory experiences on more than a superficial level. You can read all about them but that’s not the same as living with them every day.
The ADHD child is continuously bombarded with information, but is unable to turn off the extraneous input so he can focus. Or, how about the young girl who is legally blind and needs an escort to play outside?
Let’s explore – from their perspective - some of the common sensory overload hurdles that children with special needs must face.
ADD/ADHD
A common complaint of the ADD or ADHD child is that he can’t ignore the trivial so he can focus on the important. He is being presented with a metaphorical fire hose of stimuli with no way to dial it back. This video simulation demonstrates that experience.
Sensory Issues
Most of us can tune out the cell conversations, the sirens, and the road noise, while we’re walking in an urban area. But if you are overly sensitive to sound, a walk on a city sidewalk can be a nightmare. Watch this video to see what acute noise sensitivity is like.
Autism
A child on the autism spectrum may often find his susceptibility to noise, sensitivity to bright lights and smells overpowering. A simple walk outdoors can create feelings of frustration, anxiety, and fear. The child may resort to behaviors meant to relieve those feelings, such as aggression or flight. This simulation gives you a taste of that sensory experience.
Low Vision/Vision Impaired
How would impaired vision affect your daily life? If you were legally blind, your ability to do so many of the things that we take for granted would become a terrible chore. Think about what it would be like for a child to make her way to school, and then follow along with the class when seeing the chalkboard is almost impossible. “See” what’s it’s like to be visually impaired.
Hearing Loss
Hearing loss also is a common problem than can range from minor to severe. This simulator provides a glimpse into the world of a child or adult experiencing hearing loss.
Do you have a child with special needs in your family? These simulators can start a conversation with friends, teachers, grandparents, siblings, and other relatives. They help them gain some sensitivity to and awareness of what the child faces on a daily basis.
Have you tried simulators? Visit our Facebook page and tell us about your experience.
Need more help advocating for your child? Consult with a therapist, educational consultant, or advocate from KIDStherapyfinder.com directory for support.
