Understanding Sensory Processing: Support, Tips & Our Sensory Group

Balancing blocks

Have you ever wondered why some children cover their ears at loud noises, avoid certain textures, or constantly seek movement? Or why some adults feel overwhelmed in busy environments or struggle to focus in noisy workplaces?

These behaviours often relate to sensory processing—how the brain interprets and responds to the information we receive from our senses. At Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy and Shellharbour Occupational Therapy, we support both children and adults to better understand their sensory systems, build self-regulation skills, and find comfort in their bodies and environments.

We’re also excited to offer a dedicated sensory group program designed to provide practical strategies, safe exploration, and peer connection in a fun, supportive space.

What Is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing refers to how our brain receives, organises, and responds to input from the senses:

• Sight (visual)

• Sound (auditory)

• Touch (tactile)

• Taste and smell (gustatory and olfactory)

• Movement (vestibular)

• Body awareness (proprioception)

• Internal body cues (interoception – like hunger, thirst, and emotions)

For most people, sensory input is processed automatically. But for some, this system works differently—and can lead to sensory sensitivities (hypersensitivity) or sensory-seeking behaviours (hyposensitivity). This is often seen in neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and sensory processing disorder.

Signs of Sensory Processing Differences

Children or adults who experience sensory processing challenges may:

• Cover their ears or become distressed by loud sounds

• Avoid messy play or certain clothing textures

• Feel overwhelmed in busy environments (shopping centres, classrooms)

• Constantly move, fidget, or seek high-energy play

• Struggle with sleep or transitions

• Have big emotional reactions to small triggers

Understanding how each person’s sensory system works can be life-changing—and empowering.

Top Sensory Tips from Our OT Team

1. Build a Sensory Profile

Every person is unique. Work with an OT to identify which sensory inputs are calming, alerting, or overwhelming. This creates the foundation for a personalised plan.

2. Create a ‘Sensory Diet’

A sensory diet is a plan of sensory activities that help regulate the nervous system. This may include:

• Jumping on a trampoline

• Carrying heavy items (proprioceptive input)

• Listening to calming music

• Using a fidget toy or weighted lap pad

3. Use Visual Supports

For kids especially, visual schedules, timers, and social stories can prepare them for transitions or overwhelming environments.

4. Set Up a Sensory-Friendly Environment

• Use soft lighting or noise-cancelling headphones

• Create a calm corner with cushions or a tent

• Offer chewing gum or crunchy snacks for oral input

5. Empower Through Choice

Let children and adults make choices about their sensory needs: “Would you like to wear your noise-cancelling headphones?” “Do you want to swing or bounce first?”

About Our Sensory Group at Shoalhaven OT

Our Sensory Group is a small, supportive therapy group run by our experienced OTs and allied health assistants. It’s designed to help children explore their sensory needs in a safe, structured environment—while also building confidence, social skills, and emotional regulation.

🌀 What’s Included:

• Movement-based sensory play (swings, obstacle courses, jumping)

• Messy play and tactile exploration

• Calming strategies (breathing, mindfulness, sensory bottles)

• Peer interaction and co-regulation activities

• Parent handouts and take-home strategies

👶 Who It’s For:

• Children aged 4–10 years

• Those with sensory processing differences, autism, ADHD, or emotional regulation challenges

• NDIS-funded or privately funded clients welcome

🗓️ When and Where:

• Weekly sessions held at our Shoalhaven OT clinic

• Term-based program with small group sizes to ensure individual support

  
  

Why Join a Sensory Group?

Group therapy allows children to:

• Learn regulation strategies through play

• Practice sharing space and tools with others

• Receive positive feedback and encouragement from peers

• Feel less alone in their challenges

For parents, our group offers connection with other families, access to experienced therapists, and practical tools to use at home.

Want to Know More?

Our team at Shoalhaven OT and Shellharbour OT are passionate about supporting children and families through every step of their sensory journey. Whether your child needs an individual sensory assessment or would benefit from the energy and support of a group setting, we’re here to help.

📞 Call us at (02)44216013📧 Email admin@shoalhavenot.au🗓️ Make a referral here: Make a Referral

Understanding and supporting sensory needs isn’t just therapeutic—it’s transformative. Let’s work together to help your child feel calm, confident, and in control.