Sensory Processing Difficulties (SPD) can shape how young children explore their world. Some children feel everything too strongly, while others hardly notice what is around them. In an early years classroom, this can show up in small moments. A child may cover their ears during playtime, avoid certain textures, or move around nonstop.
This course gives teachers and early years practitioners a clear and gentle understanding of SPD. You will learn what sensory processing looks like, why children react in certain ways, and how simple classroom strategies can help them feel comfortable and ready to learn. The goal is to help you create a space where every child feels safe, understood, and supported.
Helps you understand what Sensory Processing Difficulties are and how they affect young children.
Explains why some children feel too much or too little or seek extra sensory input.
Shows how SPD can appear in everyday classroom moments.
Helps you recognise behaviours like avoiding noise, craving movement, or struggling during transitions.
Offers simple and practical ways to support children with sensory needs.
Guides you in creating a calm, safe, and welcoming early years environment.
Builds your confidence in using sensory tools, routines, and gentle strategies.
Understand the different types of sensory processing difficulties.
Recognise early signs of SPD in young children.
Respond to sensory needs with practical, child friendly strategies.
Use sensory tools and routines with confidence.
Support smoother transitions and calmer classroom moments.
Create a learning environment that nurtures focus, comfort, and emotional stability.
Complete the course to earn your certificate, available for viewing and download
This lesson explains the three main patterns of sensory processing. You will learn how each pattern affects a child's behaviour, comfort, and learning.
Over-responsiveness
Some children feel sensations too strongly. A simple sound or touch can overwhelm them. This section helps you understand what these reactions mean and how to respond gently.
Under-responsiveness
These children may appear quiet, slow to react, or not aware of what is happening around them. You will learn how to notice subtle signs and support their engagement.
Sensory Seeking
Some children crave movement or deep pressure. They may jump, crash, or fidget often. This part shows you why they do this and how to guide their energy safely.
In this lesson, you will explore the early behaviours that often point to sensory difficulties. The aim is to help you spot patterns early and support children with care.
Avoiding noise, textures, or movement
Children may cover their ears, refuse messy play, or feel anxious about busy spaces.
Craving deep pressure or constant activity
They may run, jump, or push objects often because it helps them stay regulated.
Difficulty with transitions
Simple changes, like moving from playtime to tidy-up time, may feel stressful. You will learn how to ease this shift.
This lesson gives you ready to use ideas that bring comfort, structure, and balance to your classroom.
Sensory tools
Items like fidgets, wobble cushions, or headphones can support focus and calm. You will learn how to use them in a safe, purposeful way.
Calming corners
A small quiet space can help children reset. This part explains how to set it up using soft textures, gentle lighting, and clear routines.
Sensory-based routines and activities
Simple activities, such as deep breathing, movement breaks, or tactile play, help children stay regulated. You will learn how to blend these into daily teaching.
