A sensory meltdown is not a tantrum.

@maryfairybobbery

This quote has changed the way I view my son, C, and helped me to realise that what he has is not who he is. It’s the filter through which he experiences the world, and it is my job to help him decipher the best way to process his world until he can do it himself.

I have had ALL the phrases thrown at me, by friends, family and supposed mentors:

“you can’t let him get away with it”

“he’s not disciplined properly”

“he’s taking advantage of you”

“you need to draw the line”

“that’s just manipulation”

“he doesn’t get enough hidings”

I can promise you, I have heard it all. I’m pretty sure you’ve also sat for hours at night repeating things in your head and questioning your own behavior, logic and even your sanity whenever it’s been a bad day and you’ve encountered one of these phrases during the day.

I have avoided social engagements or just slipped out early with my son to avoid “the look” and the “judgement” from other parents who don’t have to walk this road every day.

The explosive “tantrum”

The extreme emotions.

The sudden retreating into themselves.

The lashing out.

How do I know if my Child Has Sensory Processing Disorder?

Katie Lear

Very few understand, and when you find the few who do and allow your kid space to be themselves it is a priceless gift to be treasured.

We have just found a brilliant Occupation Therapist and she is opening my understanding to new ways of looking at SPD, as well as getting to know C, and his individual ways.

So don’t listen to the negative comments, listen to your mamma heart, you know your child and you know what he needs. I learned very early on what C could handle and what would send him into over stimulation. I have waited till he is older (now 8) to try and help him face some of his big feelings and help him understand them.

It’s a journey to finding out what works for you, your child and your family. It won’t change overnight, but your understanding can, so work on that in the meantime.

x Kim