Chee has something called Sensory Processing Disorder, sometimes called Sensory Integration Dysfunction. First, I prefer to say she has Sensor Processing Challenges. I like the notion of her overcoming challenge, not having a disorder. And from what I hear from the experts, including her very own therapist, is that indeed she will overcome her Sensory Processing challenges. One could argue that it’s semantics, but I happen to believe in the power of language. I choose to use language that conjures up images of Success, rather than words that make nice labels but ooze negativity.

There are as many descriptions of Sensory Processing challenges as there are kids who are challenged. Just like a snowflake, every kid with a challenge is unique. Chee’s challenges are fairly mild, they seem to show up primarily when she is stressed or overtired. She has been in Occupational Therapy for about 4 months and we’ve seen some great improvement.

One thing I’ve noticed is that she seems to be cycling through various needs for sensory input. Each week it’s something different. There was the week she was constantly laying on the floor rolling around. Even in Costco. I made good use of my Mommy Blinders that week to ignore the stares from other shoppers. Truth be told – I didn’t mind. At least she wasn’t running screaming through the store.

Then there was the week of body thumping. It was a gentle body thump, but nonetheless it had the potential to be inappropriate. Such as when she thumped, using her whole body, a complete stranger the night I took her to a preschool event. I’m not sure what she saw in him that made her want to thump away. Fortunately he was good-natured. Wish everyone could be as non-judgmental as he was.

This week seems to be all about the Hug. She wants hugs. A lot of them. The requests come when she’s a little out of sorts and her nervous system is looking for more sensory input. The extra input helps her organize her mind and body to process whatever is coming at her. What’s awesome is she knows when she needs more input. She’ll say, “I need a hug.” I wrap my arms around her and squeeze tight. Then it’s, “I need other hug.” and “More hugs.” And I am 100% compliant – except when I’m driving (much to her dismay).

The weekly therapy is helping. I could give several examples of how she handles herself so much better when we’re in situations that previously caused her stress. It’s remarkable.

It’s easy to feel frustrated at times, especially when she springs a meltdown on me when I’m not expecting it. Just like she’s cycling through various needs for sensory input, she’s also cycling through various challenges. What bothered her one week is no big deal the next, but there is often times something new to replace it. But she’ll work though that one too. See, she’s overcoming her challenges.

Just so long as she doesn’t overcome her need for Hugs, I think we’ll be fine.