Sensory integrative dysfunction is a term used to describe children who have difficulties processing various amounts of sensory input.  It could be sound sensitivities, sensitivities to or seeking of various types of movement, or difficulties with tactile input.

What are the signs of sensory integrative dysfunction?

• Loves to spin, swing and jump--this will seem to calm them down after several minutes.
• Complains of how clothing feels, does not like tags left in their clothing and have to have their socks on just so, or a certain kind of sock.
• Picky eaters--get stuck on one certain food and is basically impossible to get them to eat anything else.
• Oversensitivity to smells. Or under sensitivity--may sniff people, objects, food.
• Oversensitivity to sounds--will frequently cover ears. Or under sensitivity.
• Oversensitivity to touch, movement, sights or sounds
• May have an exceptionally high pain tolerance
• May tire easily
• Resists new situations
• Problems with muscle tone, coordination, motor planning
• Can be very impulsive or distractible.
• Persistently walks on toes to avoid sensory input from the bottom of the feet. This can also be a sign of cerebral palsy if the child is unable to bring their feet down flat when asked or trying.
• Under reactive to touch, movement, sights or sounds
• Activity level is unusually high or unusually low
• Physical clumsiness or apparent carelessness
• Impulsive, lack in self control
• Difficulty making transitions from one situation to another
• Inability to unwind or self calm
• Easily distracted

Not all children who have processing differences have sensory integration dysfunction.  It is important to remember that we all have preferences in the activities that we do.  Some children love to play sports, run, and crash a lot.  Other children prefer more sedentary play, games, or table top play.  It is when this difference begins to effect their daily lives in a negative way.  For example, avoidance of situations (mall, stores, school, birthday parties, or events), extreme fear in otherwise child friendly environments (amusement parks, playgrounds) and when children are not progressing in developmental milestones (intense fear of climbing, avoidance of play with peers).

These are just a few of the processing differences that children with SID/DSI can exhibit.   If you think your child is having difficulties with sensory processing, contact your pediatrician and/or an occupational therapist who specializes in sensory processing for more information