Information for Parents and Carers

Our senses help us understand and respond to the world around us. Some children experience sensory information differently and may become overwhelmed, distracted or distressed by things that other people hardly notice.

Sensory differences can affect how a child feels, behaves, communicates and learns.

What might sensory differences look like?

A child may be particularly sensitive to:

• Loud or unexpected sounds
• Bright lights
• Busy environments
• Certain smells
• Clothing or particular textures
• Food textures or tastes
• Physical contact

Other children may actively seek sensory experiences, such as movement, touching objects or making sounds.

A child may experience both sensitivity and sensory-seeking behaviours.

What might you notice?

Your child may:

• Cover their ears
• Avoid particular clothes or foods
• Become distressed in busy environments
• Seek movement or physical activity
• Find it difficult to sit still
• Become overwhelmed after a busy day
• Need quiet time to recover
• Find changes in sensory environments difficult

How can I help?

Notice patterns

Try to identify when your child becomes overwhelmed and what may have contributed.

Provide calm spaces

A quiet, predictable space can give your child somewhere to regulate.

Prepare for busy environments

Let your child know what to expect before visiting unfamiliar or busy places.

Offer appropriate movement

Some children benefit from opportunities to move, stretch or take short breaks.

Respect sensory preferences

Where possible, avoid unnecessary sensory demands and look for alternatives that allow your child to participate comfortably.

At school

We may use strategies such as:

• Movement breaks
• Visual information
• Quiet spaces
• Adapted seating or positioning
• Sensory resources
• Preparation for changes
• Reasonable adjustments to the environment

Support is individual and is based on what helps each child.

If you have concerns

Please speak to your child's class teacher or Mrs Farrell, our SENCo.

SENCo: Mrs Farrell
Email: office@mps.kent.sch.uk

Remember

Sensory behaviour is often a child's way of communicating that something feels too much, too little or different from what they need.