Occupational Therapy · October 2026 · By the Growing Minds team
Meltdowns, Tags and Loud Noises: Understanding Sensory Sensitivities
Some children seem to feel the world at a higher volume. A clothing tag is unbearable. A hand dryer sends them running. Other children seem to crave more input, constantly spinning, crashing and climbing. Both are ways that children can experience sensory input differently.
What are sensory sensitivities?
Our bodies take in information all day through sound, touch, movement, taste, smell and sight. Some children are more sensitive to that input, some seek more of it, and some do a bit of both. It’s not misbehavior, and it isn’t a result of anything you’ve done.
Signs you might notice
- Strong reactions to loud sounds, bright lights or busy places
- Discomfort with clothing tags, seams, socks or messy hands
- Very picky eating based on texture or smell
- Constantly moving, crashing, jumping or spinning
- Seeming clumsy, or bumping into things
- Big feelings or meltdowns in overwhelming settings
How occupational therapy can help
An occupational therapist looks at how your child responds to different kinds of input and helps them build comfort and skills through play. Sessions might include swings, obstacle courses and messy play. The goal isn’t to remove every challenge. It’s to help your child feel calm, regulated and confident in daily life.
Things you can try at home
- Notice patterns. When do the hard moments happen, and what’s going on around your child?
- Give a heads-up before busy or loud places
- Build in movement breaks and quiet breaks
- Let your child help choose clothes that feel comfortable
- Stay calm, and name the feeling: “That was really loud. Let’s take a break.”
If sensory challenges are making daily life hard for your child or your family, a screening can help you understand what’s going on and what to try next.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for an evaluation. Every child develops at their own pace.