Six Ways to Support Sensory-Seeking Behaviour in Children

Raising a child with sensory-seeking needs often feels like managing a high-energy storm. There are moments of joy, exhaustion, and confusion, often wrapped into one. When my son was seven, he went through what we called his Houdini phase—vanishing in the blink of an eye. Once, during a grocery run, I found him in the frozen section, licking ice off the freezer door. At school, he loved sneaking into the therapy room to wedge himself between mattresses, and during swimming lessons, he spent nearly all his time underwater. These moments, though challenging, are an essential part of who he is, reflecting how sensory-seeking children experience and make sense of the world around them.

What Does Sensory-Seeking Behaviour Look Like?

Children with sensory-seeking needs engage in seemingly odd behaviours, but these actions serve a real purpose. Here are some common behaviours and the reasons behind them:

• Hand-flapping, spinning, or rocking back and forth
  These rhythmic movements offer a sense of control and predictability, which helps children feel calm and grounded. The repetitive motion also stimulates the vestibular system, which regulates balance and spatial awareness.
• Chewing on non-food objects, such as pencils or clothing
  Chewing or sucking provides proprioceptive input—stimulation to the muscles and joints—that can help soothe anxiety and improve focus.
• Making loud noises or seeking out noisy environments
  Loud sounds can help sensory-seeking children stay alert and engaged, particularly if they struggle with sluggishness or under-reactivity to sensory input.
• Showing a high tolerance for pain or playing rougher than others
  Sensory seekers may need strong, deep pressure to feel balanced. Rough play gives them the intense physical feedback they crave, helping them feel more regulated.
• Touching everything—or everyone—within reach
  Tactile exploration helps sensory-seeking children feel more connected to their surroundings. Physical contact, whether through hugs or brushing against others, offers comfort and reassurance.

These behaviours aren't random—they are ways children regulate their emotions and manage the sensory input they experience. It can be overwhelming to navigate, but parents and children can thrive with understanding and strategies.

6 Ways to Help Your Sensory-Seeking Child Thrive

1. Create a Safe Space at Home
   Safety becomes paramount when parenting a sensory seeker who may not recognise danger. Install safety gates, secure furniture, and lock away hazardous items. Use visual schedules and reminders to build routines, helping your child feel secure in their environment.
2. Offer Structured Sensory Input
   Trying to suppress sensory-seeking behaviours only leads to frustration. Instead, meet those needs in safe ways. Weighted blankets, firm massages, or sensory toys can help your child self-regulate. Activities like swinging or jumping on a trampoline provide the movement they crave, promoting balance and focus.
3. Set Up a Sensory-Rich Environment
   A sensory-rich environment encourages healthy exploration. Create a designated sensory space with textured mats, soft lighting, and soothing music. Provide swings or beanbags for physical input and aromatherapy oils for calming smells. This way, your child has a safe place to explore and engage their senses.
4. Educate Family, Teachers, and Caregivers
   Sharing your child's needs with those around them fosters understanding and empathy. Educate teachers, grandparents, and caregivers about the purpose behind sensory-seeking behaviours, ensuring they respond appropriately and supportively. This knowledge allows your child to receive consistent care and helps prevent misunderstandings.
5. Celebrate Small Wins and Reinforce Positive Behaviour
   Acknowledging progress—however small—goes a long way. When your child asks for help or chooses a safer way to meet their sensory needs, celebrate it. Reinforcing positive behaviour with encouragement builds trust and gives your child tools to manage their world effectively.
6. Build Resilience and Find Your Community
   It can be tough when others don’t understand your child’s behaviour. But as a parent, your resilience matters. Lean on communities and resources that understand your journey—you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Supporting a sensory-seeking child means embracing their uniqueness and helping them thrive in a world not always built for them. It’s about finding joy in the quirks, patiently meeting challenges, and celebrating each step forward.

If you want more insights, strategies, and a supportive community, visit the NeuroParenting Hub or sign up for the NeuroParenting Newsroom. Together, we can create a world where our children are understood, supported, and celebrated for exactly who they are.