Nov 5 / Guest blogger and occupational therapist, Jennifer Loughlin, OTD, OTR/L

Understanding Sensory Processing in Early Childhood: Key Insights for OT Practice

Welcome to guest blogger and OT Jennifer Loughlin, OTD, OTR/L

Sensory processing is a cornerstone of early childhood development, shaping how children interact with their environment, regulate emotions, and participate in everyday activities. As occupational therapy practitioners, understanding these processes is critical to supporting meaningful engagement in play, routines, and learning.

The Role of Sensory Processing

Children experience the world through multiple sensory channels. How they detect, interpret, and respond to these inputs can influence attention, behavior, and participation. Differences in sensory processing can manifest in a variety of ways:

• Difficulty sitting through tasks or engaging in play

• Over- or under-responsiveness to tactile or auditory stimuli

• Challenges with coordination or motor planning

• Emotional dysregulation during routine activities


Recognizing these patterns allows occupational therapy practitioners to differentiate between developmental, behavioral, or sensory-based challenges, and to tailor interventions accordingly.

Key Considerations for Assessment

Observation remains a primary tool for understanding sensory processing in context. When evaluating children, consider:

• Environmental influences: Noise levels, lighting, or visual clutter can affect attention and regulation.

• Activity demands: Transitions, fine motor tasks, or group activities may exacerbate sensory challenges.

• Individual differences: Each child has a unique sensory profile; what is soothing for one may be overwhelming for another.

Structured assessments, combined with careful observation, provide a comprehensive understanding of how sensory processing affects participation and daily routines.


Integrating Sensory Understanding into Intervention

Effective interventions focus on participation rather than isolated skill-building. Strategies may include:

• Adapting routines or environments to reduce sensory barriers

• Incorporating sensory supports naturally into play and daily activities

• Coaching caregivers to recognize triggers and support regulation at home and school

• Combining sensory strategies with developmental and behavioral approaches for holistic support


Clinical Implications

By viewing sensory processing through the lens of functional participation, occupational therapy practitioners can design meaningful, engaging, and effective interventions. Sensory-informed practice enhances not only a child’s ability to participate but also their overall development, confidence, and enjoyment of daily life.



Guest Writer

Jennifer Loughlin, OTD, OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist, writer, and educator with over a decade of experience in early intervention and private practice. She is the founder of Growing in Play, a platform that helps families support child development through play, connection, and sensory-informed strategies. Jennifer specializes in family-centered care and has worked extensively with children with complex and rare diagnoses, including SMA, Trisomy 13, and MOPD. She has presented at state and national conferences and has served as an adjunct faculty member at Quinnipiac University, her alma mater. Through both clinical practice and accessible resources, she helps families feel more confident, connected, and capable—without the overwhelm.

Want a deeper dive?
Join us for Jennifer's webinar "Sensory Processing in Early Childhood: From Development to Practice" happening November 18, 2025
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