Hello, I came to this site because I don't know how to help my son. He was diagnosed with SPD back in November and I don't know how to help him. I have known something was going on with him since he was about 18 months old for various reasons: sensitive to touch, noise, visual stimulation, motor delays, and he also exhibits oral defensiveness. He's the happiest child, very affectionate, and extremely (maybe overly) friendly to others. He is only 4 and has a memory like none I've ever seen. He has complex medical issues, has since shortly after birth, but it mostly effects his growth. His cognitive ability and communication are actually probably advanced. He does receive home based therapy for his motor skills, but I am having difficulty with sensory seeking/obsessive behaviors. Ever since I can remember he has been one to grind his teeth, but has also started some newer behaviors like picking the skin off of his fingers (he's had them bleeding more than once) and twirling his tongue in his mouth. Our latest challenge involves his medical needs...he receives IV fluids daily and will not leave the dressings alone. He says that they itch but I can't help but think that it's also a sensory behavior. Possibly irritated by the tape or the IV line under his skin, I'm not sure which. The doctors are not much help outside of trying different adhesives and vest-type devices that don't help. Can anxiety contribute to these obsessive behaviors? And would treating that possibly help?
Thanks very much for any input. I just want to help him, I know this drives me crazy and can't imagine how it makes him feel.