Sensory circuits

Sensory circuits are a crucial element in supporting the regulation of children with Sensory Processing Difficulties (SPD). These circuits provide sensory input and help individuals process and respond to sensory information effectively. By understanding how sensory circuits work and implementing appropriate strategies, parents, educators, and therapists can help create a more supportive environment for SPD children or those with high anxiety.

What are Sensory Circuits?

Sensory circuits, also known as sensory integration or sensory processing, refer to the way our brains receive, interpret, and respond to sensory information from our environment. Sensory circuits involve the nervous system and play a vital role in regulating emotions, behaviour, attention, and overall well-being.

Sensory Regulation: 

Children may experience sensory processing difficulties, where their brains struggle to organise and respond to sensory input effectively. Sensory circuits help regulate these difficulties by providing structured and repetitive sensory experiences tailored to the individual's needs. This regulation can enhance attention, self-regulation, and overall emotional well-being.

Sensory Integration: 

SPD children often face challenges in integrating sensory information from different modalities, such as touch, sound, sight, and movement. Sensory circuits help these children integrate sensory input more efficiently, enabling them to better understand and respond to their environment. This integration can enhance their ability to engage in activities, interact with others, and navigate their surroundings.

Our sensory circuits are made up of three components; Alert, Organising and Calming. 

Alerting activities, such as fast-paced, repetitive movements or intense sensory input, can help increase arousal levels and promote focus and attention.

Organising activities, include activities that offer more than one input and promote co-ordination and balance.  

Calming activities, such as deep pressure touch or slow rhythmic movements, can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, bringing a child down from high arousal to calm and alert.