Sensory Sensitivity in Children with High Learning Potential
Sensitivity to various kinds of sensory stimuli is common among children with high learning potential. As many as one-third of children with high learning potential may exhibit sensory processing disorder features, significantly affecting the quality of their life. Some young people with high learning potential may have a sensory processing disorder while others have dyspraxia.
Sensory sensitivity can cause problems with processing sensory information, meaning that children with high learning potential struggle to function in some environments, for example where there are loud noises or lots of people. This has an effect on their participation in everyday activities, and can also affect their eating and clothing habits.
Find out more about sensory issues in our fact sheet F05 Sensory Processing Disorder and High Learning Potential
Hypersensitivities
Many children with high learning potential have emotional and sensory development that is beyond their years. In Dabrowski’s Theory of Positive Disintegration, a personality development theory, he observed hypersensitivities/ overexcitabilities in children with high learning potential which lead them to experience life in a manner that is deeper, more vivid and more acutely sensed.
Find out more about hypersensitivities in our page Hypersensitivities in Children with High Learning Potential
Working with Sensory Sensitivities
Learn how to work with your child to help them minimise their sensory difficulties.
Download our advice sheets:
- PA609 Sensory Food Aversion and High Learning Potential Children
- PA317 Sensory Input for Sensory Seekers
Read our blog articles:
How to Help your High Learning Potential Child to Cope with Noise
This free course is available from The OT Company, who have great experience of working with the sensory needs of children with high learning potential. This course offers strategies to help parents support children who are made anxious by noise which can lead to refusal to go places. https://the-ot-company-online-courses.teachable.com/p/how-to-help-your-high-learning-potential-child-cope-with-noise