Pediatric Occupational Therapy for Sensory Processing Disorder
in San Diego, CA
Helping Children Gain Confidence in Daily Life
Some children are extra sensitive to sights, sounds, textures, or movement, while others may seem under-responsive or constantly seek stimulation. These differences can affect everything from playtime to mealtime and learning in the classroom.
When everyday experiences feel overwhelming (or not stimulating enough), children may struggle to focus, participate, or feel comfortable. At SmallTalk Pediatric Therapy, our occupational therapists specialize in helping children with sensory processing challenges gain the tools and confidence they need to thrive.
What Is Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) occurs when the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to information it gets from the senses. This can include the senses of touch, taste, smell, hearing, and sight, as well as their body awareness, internal cues (like hunger or tiredness), and their sense of balance. A child with SPD might be:
Hypersensitive: too sensitive to certain sounds, textures, or movements and may avoid these stimuli.
Hyposensitive: not sensitive to environmental stimuli and/or constantly seeking movement or touch.
These differences can impact how they play, interact, and carry out daily routines. The signs of SPD can look like behavioral challenges, but your child isn’t trying to be difficult; their nervous system simply has trouble processing information they receive from their senses.
Common Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder
SPD can look very different from one child to another. Some common signs include:
- Strong reactions to loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures
- Avoidance of messy play, hair brushing, or specific clothing fabrics
- Constant movement, spinning, or jumping
- Difficulty sitting still or staying focused
- Challenges with coordination and motor planning
- Picky eating or limited food choices due to texture sensitivities
- Emotional outbursts when routines or environments feel overwhelming
- Trouble transitioning between activities or adapting to changes in routine
- Difficulty recognizing internal cues like hunger, tiredness, or the need to use the bathroom
- Challenges with attention and staying engaged in structured activities
How Occupational Therapy Can Help with SPD
At SmallTalk, our occupational therapists use play-based, evidence-backed approaches to help children regulate their sensory systems and participate more successfully in daily life. Every session is personalized to your child’s unique sensory profile, strengths, and goals, so progress feels natural and fun.
Therapy may include:
- Sensory integration activities that gradually build tolerance to challenging textures, sounds, or movements
- Movement-based play (swings, climbing, jumping) to organize the nervous system and improve body awareness
- Fine motor and coordination practice to support tasks like writing, buttoning clothes, or feeding
- Calming and alerting strategies to help children manage their energy and attention levels
- Parent coaching to give families practical tools for smoother routines at home, school, and in the community
Why Choose SmallTalk?
When it comes to helping your child gain independence and confidence, you want a team that not only understands child development but truly connects with kids. That’s exactly what you’ll find at SmallTalk!
We help children throughout San Diego achieve their greatest potential. Our occupational therapists are committed to helping your child grow through playful, goal-oriented sessions. Whether we’re working on motor coordination, sensory processing, or self-care routines, we make therapy meaningful and fun.
We also know that parent involvement is key. That’s why we prioritize open communication and teamwork, so you always feel supported and involved in your child’s progress.
Schedule Your Child’s Evaluation Today
If your child struggles with sensory challenges, SmallTalk Pediatric Therapy is here to help. Our experienced occupational therapists in San Diego can create a personalized plan to support your child’s regulation, independence, and confidence.
Call us at (619) 647-6157 or fill out our online form to schedule an evaluation today. Together, we’ll help your child achieve more comfort, confidence, and joy in their daily life.