How do I help my child with sensory processing at home?

A sensory diet is a personalised plan of activities designed to help your child regulate their nervous system throughout the day. Heavy work activities—such as pushing a loaded washing basket, carrying groceries, climbing, or jumping on a trampoline—provide deep pressure input that many children find calming. These can be woven into daily routines without extra time commitment.

Practical strategies include:

**Predictable routines**: Children with sensory processing differences often thrive with consistent daily structures. Use visual schedules (pictures or written steps) for transitions, mealtimes, and bedtime to reduce anxiety and sensory overwhelm.

**Sensory spaces**: Create a quiet corner with cushions, blankets, or a pop-up tent where your child can retreat when overstimulated. Include calming items like weighted blankets, fidget toys, or soft textures.

**Environmental adjustments**: Reduce fluorescent lighting (use lamps instead), lower background noise, and limit visual clutter. These changes benefit most children, not just those with sensory sensitivities.

**Movement breaks**: Offer 5–10 minute movement sessions between focused activities—trampolining, dancing, or yoga—to help reset their nervous system.

**Tactile play**: Provide safe sensory exploration through playdough, kinetic sand, water play, or textured craft materials.

If your child shows persistent difficulties with sensory processing—such as extreme reactions to sounds, textures, or movement; difficulty with self-care tasks; or behaviour changes linked to sensory triggers—consult your GP or paediatrician. They can refer you to a paediatric occupational therapist (OT) through Medicare (up to 10 sessions annually under the Enhanced Primary Care scheme) or your state's public health system. NDIS participants may access OT services as part of their plan; the 2025–26 NDIS Pricing Arrangements set standard rates for OT consultations at approximately $120–$180 per hour depending on your state and the therapist's experience.

An OT can assess your child's specific sensory profile and create a tailored home programme, ensuring strategies match their needs rather than trial-and-error approaches.