Pediatric Therapy for Sensory Processing Difficulties in Chicago, IL
Does your child cover their ears at everyday noises, refuse certain clothes because they “feel wrong,” or feel overwhelmed when routines change? These may be signs of sensory processing difficulties (also known as “sensory processing disorder”), a condition that can influence every part of a child’s day—from learning in school to making friends to managing routines—making it harder for them to stay calm, focused, and comfortable.
At SensAble Kids in Chicago, IL, our pediatric therapists use play-based strategies to help children manage sensory input, build confidence, and participate more fully in daily life.
What Are Sensory Processing Difficulties?
Sensory processing difficulties occur when the brain has trouble organizing and responding to information from the senses, including touch, sound, sight, taste, smell, and movement. This can make ordinary experiences feel either too intense or not intense enough.
For some children, ordinary sensations feel overwhelming. A child may cover their ears when a vacuum turns on, gag at the texture of certain foods, or refuse clothing with seams or tags because they are irritating. For other children, sensations don’t register strongly enough, so they seek extra input. These children may often spin, jump, or crash into things, constantly move their bodies, or chew on objects to feel calm, focused and regulated.
These reactions aren’t misbehavior—they are signs that the child’s nervous system is processing sensory input differently. With support, children can learn strategies to regulate their responses and approach each day with greater self-assurance.
Signs of Sensory Processing Difficulties in Children
Parents and caregivers are often the first to notice sensory processing differences. A child with sensory processing difficulties may:
- Avoid certain fabrics, tags, or shoes
- Cover their ears or cry in response to common sounds
- Become overwhelmed in crowded or busy places
- Refuse foods because of texture or taste
- Seek extra movement by running, spinning, or climbing
- Resist playground activities like swings or slides
- Struggle with transitions or changes in routine
These signs look different for each child, but they all point to a need for extra support in managing sensory input.
How Pediatric Therapy Treats Sensory Processing Difficulties
At SensAble Kids, every therapy session is uniquely tailored to your child’s sensory and emotional needs. Our therapists use play, movement, and relationship to help children feel more comfortable and organized in their bodies. Sessions are both engaging and purposeful—creating just-right challenges that help children explore, adapt, and grow.
Depending on your child’s needs, sessions may include sensory-motor play such as obstacle courses to build body awareness and coordination, gradual exploration of new textures and sounds, or calming activities like deep pressure, heavy work, or guided breathing to support regulation.
We partner closely with families to carry progress into everyday life—through simple routines like creating a quiet sensory corner, adding movement breaks during transitions, or breaking big tasks into smaller, more achievable steps. Together, we help children feel safe, confident, and ready to take on their world.
Benefits of Pediatric Therapy for Sensory Processing
With regular therapy, children often:
- Feel more comfortable in different environments
- Participate more easily in school, play, and family life
- Develop coping skills for managing overwhelming sensations
- Expand their willingness to try new foods, clothes, or activities
- Build confidence and independence
Each child’s journey is unique, and even small steps forward can make everyday life easier.
Getting Started with SensAble Kids
If your child shows signs of sensory processing difficulties, you are not alone. Our team at SensAble Kids in Chicago, IL, provides personalized care tailored to your child’s unique needs. Through play and connection, we help children build strategies that make sensory processing challenges more manageable.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and learn how pediatric therapy can help your child feel more at ease and less overwhelmed in their everyday world.