Welcome to Tribe's first community for Sensory Processing Disorder, originally known as Sensory Integration Dysfunction...

"What is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory processing refers to our ability to take in information through our senses (touch, movement, smell, taste, vision, and hearing), organize and interpret that information, and make a meaningful response. For most people, this process is automatic. We hear someone talking to us, our brains receive that input and recognize it as a voice talking in a normal tone, and we respond appropriately.

Children who have a Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), however, don’t experience such interactions in the same way. SPD affects the way their brains interpret the information that comes in; it also affects how they respond to that information with emotional, motor, and other reactions.

For example, some children are over-responsive to sensation and so feel as if they are being constantly bombarded with sensory information. They may try to eliminate or minimize this perceived sensory overload by avoiding being touched or being very particular about clothing. Some children are under-responsive and have an almost insatiable desire for sensory stimulation. They may seek out constant stimulation by taking part in extreme activities, playing music very loudly, or moving constantly. They sometimes don’t notice pain or objects that are too hot or cold, and may need high intensity input in order to become involved in activities. Still others have trouble distinguishing between different types of sensory stimulation.

There are several types of Sensory Processing Disorder; each one may result in a number of different behavioral and sensory patterns.

Both children and adults can be diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder. As many as 5 percent of all children suffer from SPD. "

My son, Rylei, was diagnosed with SPD in November of 2006. After 10 years of struggle, heartache and frustration pushing my maternal capabilities to the brink of exhaustion, I had an answer. Now comes the difficult part, the "WHAT NEXT?"

One of my foremost concerns is how few people know of this disorder - affecting 5% of the population, over 75% of which are males. It is SO EASILY diagnosed - WHY WASNT THIS DISCOVERED WHEN HE WAS 3? I want to pass on the news, I want to find support for other parents or people dealing with this disorder, I want some information and love and help. Anyone out there????

http://tribes.tribe.net/sensoryprocessing