What is sensory processing?
Sensory processing refers to how the nervous system receives, interprets and responds to information from the senses.
Most people think about the five senses:
- Vision (seeing)
- Hearing (sound)
- Touch
- Taste
- Smell
However, there are also important internal sensory systems:
- Proprioception – awareness of body position and muscle pressure
- Vestibular system – balance and movement (inner ear)
- Interoception – awareness of internal body signals such as hunger, thirst or needing the toilet
In neurodivergent children, sensory processing can work differently because the brain may filter, amplify, or register sensory input in different ways.
Children may therefore:
- experience certain sensations as much stronger or overwhelming
- barely notice some sensations
- actively seek sensory input
- actively avoid sensory input
These responses reflect how that child’s nervous system processes the world.
