Conditions We Treat

Sensory Processing Assessments for Children & Young People

An occupational therapy assessment exploring how a child responds to sensory information and how this may affect regulation, participation and everyday routines.

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30 min consultation

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When a Sensory Processing Assessment May Be Considered

Understanding Your Child's Sensory Experiences

A sensory processing assessment may be considered when a child responds strongly, minimally or inconsistently to sensory information within their environment. Parents, caregivers or teachers may notice:

  • Sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures or smells
  • Discomfort with particular clothing or food textures
  • Becoming overwhelmed in busy environments
  • Avoiding touch, movement or particular activities
  • Frequently seeking movement, pressure or physical activity
  • Difficulty remaining settled or regulated
  • Strong reactions to everyday sensory experiences
  • Difficulty with transitions between environments
  • Challenges participating in classroom or family routines
  • Reduced awareness of pain, temperature or body position
  • Difficulty concentrating when sensory demands are high
  • Sensory needs affecting sleep, eating or personal care

Individual signs do not confirm a sensory processing difficulty. An assessment considers how the child responds across different environments.

What the Assessment Explores

Building a Complete Sensory Profile

A boy wearing a box over his head as a sensory play activity

Sensory Responses

How the child responds to sound, light, touch, taste, smell and movement.

A boy holding a ball at an arcade game

Body Awareness

How the child perceives and uses their body in space.

A girl playing with blocks in a colourful room

Regulation

How the child manages their sensory responses and returns to a calm, settled state.

A child pressing their hands into a painted canvas

Participation

How sensory processing affects the child's engagement in everyday activities.

A girl holding coloured blocks over her eyes

Environment

How different settings and surroundings influence the child's sensory experience.

The Assessment Process

Understanding Sensory Needs Across Environments

Initial Consultation

The occupational therapist meets with the family to discuss current concerns, developmental history and the child's everyday routines.

A boy having his face painted with a lightning bolt design
A girl sitting inside a play tunnel surrounded by balls

Information Gathering

With appropriate consent, information may be gathered from parents, caregivers, teachers and other professionals who know the child.

Clinical Assessment

The child may take part in observations, structured activities and age-appropriate tasks exploring their sensory responses and participation.

A girl reaching up towards camera equipment
A boy making a hand gesture in front of his eyes

Sensory Profile

The occupational therapist reviews the information to identify patterns, strengths and sensory needs across different environments.

Feedback and Recommendations

The findings are discussed with the family, alongside practical recommendations and appropriate next steps.

A toddler stacking colourful toy blocks

The process may vary according to the child's age, communication needs and individual presentation.

A child's sand-covered hands forming a heart shape

Currently Reading

Occupational Therapy

Leading the sensory processing assessment.

The Team

The Medical Team

The specialists involved will depend entirely on the child's individual presentation. Choose a discipline to see its role.

Where specific needs may also be contributing, input from psychology, speech and language therapy, psychiatry or other relevant professionals may be considered, focusing on:

  • Communication needs
  • Emotional and behavioural patterns
  • Overall developmental progress

Following the Assessment

Practical Strategies for Everyday Life

What we saw, in plain language

Following the assessment, the family will receive an explanation of the findings and recommendations. Where appropriate, this may include a written report.

Written for families first, professionals second.

A toddler clapping their hands while wearing a cast

Our Philosophy

Preparing for the Assessment

The team will explain what information is required and how to prepare the child before the assessment begins.

01

Gather what you have

Families may be asked to provide relevant developmental, medical or educational information before the appointment.

02

Share daily routines

Please provide details of the child's daily routines and how they navigate their typical environment.

03

Note sensory concerns

Jot down specific examples of any sensory concerns you have noticed across different settings, such as at home or school.

04

Arrive as you are

There is nothing to rehearse. We will guide you on how to talk to your child about the day so they feel entirely comfortable.

A baby reaching both hands towards the camera

Let's Connect

Considering a Sensory Processing Assessment?

Speak with our team about your concerns and whether a sensory processing assessment may be an appropriate next step for your child.