• Responds negatively to unexpected or loud noises
• Is distracted or has trouble functioning if there is a lot of background noise
• Enjoys strange noises/seeks to make noise for noise sake
• Seems to be in his/her own world

Visual

• Children over 3 – trouble staying between the lines when coloring
• Avoids eye contact
• Squinting or looking out of the corner of the eye
• Staring at bright, flashing objects

Taste/Smell

• Avoids certain tastes/smells that are typically part of a child’s diet
• Chew/licks non-food objects
• Gags easily
• Picky eater, especially regarding textures

Movement and Body Position

• Continually seeks out all kinds of movement activities (being whirled by adult, playground equipment, moving toys, spinning, rocking)
• Becomes anxious or distressed when feet leave ground
• Poor endurance – tires easily; seems to have weak muscles
• Avoids climbing, jumping, uneven ground or roughhousing
• Moves stiffly or walks on toes; clumsy or awkward, falls frequently
• Does not enjoy a variety of playground equipment
• Enjoys exaggerated positions for long periods (e.g. lies head-upside-down off sofa)

Touch

• Becomes upset during grooming (hair cutting, face washing)
• Has difficulty standing in line or close to other people; or stands too close, always touching others
• Is sensitive to certain fabrics
• Fails to notice when face or hands are messy or wet
• Cannot tolerate hair washing, hair cutting, nail clipping, teeth brushing
• Craves lots of touch: heavy pressure, long-sleeved clothing, hats and certain textures

Activity Level

• Always on the go; difficulty paying attention
• Very inactive, under-responsive

Emotional/Social

• Needs more protection from “life“ than other children
• Has difficulty with changes in routine
• Is stubborn or uncooperative; gets frustrated easily
• Has difficulty making friends
• Has difficulty understanding body language or facial expressions
• Does not feel positive about own accomplishments

If there are concerns, advise parent to contact Children’s Therapy & Family Resource Centre at 371-4100.