Understanding Sensory Needs in Children: A Child Psychologist Explains

What looks like “difficult behaviour” may be sensory overload. Learn how sensory needs show up in children and how parents can support regulation and connection.

In this episode of the DAM Parenting Podcast, host Eva sits down with our resident child psychologist Faye from Kerr Psychology to explore the often-overlooked sensory systems that shape a child’s growth, learning, and emotional regulation.

They break down proprioception, vestibular input, and the full range of sensory needs—helping parents understand why these systems matter and how they play a role in everyday routines, especially during times of transition (like starting school, returning after holidays, or getting back into structure).

Faye explains how these sensory experiences support a child’s ability to self-regulate emotions, focus, and feel calm in their bodies—and why parents don’t always need to overthink it, as many everyday activities naturally provide these supports.

• What proprioceptive and vestibular inputs are, and why they’re key to your child’s development.

• How sensory needs connect to emotional regulation and routine adjustments.

• Real-life, easy examples of sensory activities you can build into daily life:

  • Proprioceptive experiences – lifting and carrying (books, bags, buckets), pushing/pulling (wheelbarrow, stroller, vacuum, rakes), climbing monkey bars, or resistance play.

  • Pressure & movement – big bear hugs, pouring activities, rough-and-tumble play, trampolining, soft play, running, jumping, climbing, and bouncing.

  • Oral sensory activities – chewing, blowing bubbles, and more.

• Why it’s all about trial and error—finding what works for your child’s unique sensory profile.

• Middletown Centre for Autism – Sensory Processing Information

If this episode helps you better understand your child’s sensory needs, subscribe and follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes in this mini-series. We’d love to hear from you—head over to Instagram, send us your questions, and join the conversation!