Instead of the delight of playing in a sandbox, a child with sensory processing disorder may be repelled by the texture.
Instead of the fun in creating with Play-Doh, that child may keep such suspicious squishiness at arm's length.
Instead of enjoying the splashes of a good puddle, that child turns and walks away. The thought of being immersed in a bathtub of water might be horrifying — and that does not include the detestable sliminess of the soap.
“It is sort of an unknown disorder because it is not consistent,” said Kelly Gelske, an occupational therapist and clinical assistant professor at University of Toledo. “It is like autism in that it looks different in every child.”
While not currently an accepted medical diagnosis, the condition has been identified in conjunction with autism or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Local experts say it also can stand on its own. Ms. Gelske said there are patterns that can be identified, but it does not always fall into a neat package.
It often involves problems in processing light, sound, or motion. In some cases, there seems to be a challenge in integrating that sensory input into an appropriate response. In adults, the condition may be the result of a stroke or some other neurological disorder or trauma.
“I want people to know that [it] is an almost invisible disorder. It is not like a broken arm, and you can’t cast it,” said Elizabeth Wargo, an occupational therapist partnered with an optometrist at The Brodie-Wargo Vision and Sensory Therapy Center in Perrysburg. “Unless we are addressing these needs, it does not spontaneously go away.”
A child with sensory processing disorder may have trouble reading — not because they are intellectually deficient, but because their eyes have difficulty tracking the words.
“It can be a huge variety of symptomatology,” said Ms. Wargo, adding that those with the disorder usually fall into one of two categories: seekers and avoiders.
For those seeking sensory experiences, Ms. Gelske said trampolines, bouncy balls, and swings are helpful activities.
“It helps them feel more grounded if they get that input,” she said.
For those who avoid sensory experiences, Ms. Gelske said introduction to a texture may be explored on an incremental basis.
For instance, a tool may be used to help create a bridge from fearful stimuli to acceptable sensory stimulation.
“Instead of putting his hands in the water, I will give him a spoon and we will just stir the water. Then maybe just a sprinkle of water on his hands,” Ms. Gelske said. “There is a neural change, that their sensory system is becoming more adapted to that input. We can keep increasing that challenge bit by bit.”
Such experimentation may include such textures as paints, bubbles, sandpaper, and packing materials.
“We introduce textures in a very controlled manner in order for them to feel successful,” Ms. Gelske said.
In demand
As with many medical professions, demand for the services of occupational therapists, such as Ms. Gelske and Ms. Wargo, is outpacing the supply. Shortfalls are expected to increase in all 50 states through 2030, according to a forecast of nationwide shortages.
In response, Bowling Green State University is offering a doctor of occupational therapy program, with applications being accepted for fall of 2025.
“With a growing need for occupational therapists, the BGSU OTD program will place more professionals in the field and in communities where they're critically needed,” said Jackson Miller, OTD program admissions director.
More recognition
Estimates for those dealing with the symptoms of sensory processing disorder vary widely, from one in 6.25 to one in 20 people.
The process used at The Brodie-Wargo Vision and Sensory Therapy Center has its foundation in the Bolles Sensory Learning Method, developed by Mary Bolles, a learning abilities specialist, who earned a bachelor's degree at Bowling Green State University.
As the mother of four children — one son struggling with sensory processing disorder — she independently developed a system to promote the integration of multi-sensory experiences, then launched the Sensory Learning Institute International, Inc., in 1997.
The treatment involves a gentle motion table on which the patients lie as they look up at a slowly oscillating light, which Ms. Bolles, who died in 2014, described as an aerobic activity for eye musculature.
“It sounds kind of hokie, but it gets the neural pathways to communicate,” Ms. Wargo said.
Eventually, a third modality — sound accentuated randomly at different amplifications — is added to the mix in an effort for patients to integrate the processing messages into new neural pathways.
Sensory input
“We need to educate parents on the downfalls of using increased technology and the benefits of allowing kids to play at the park. It is very impactful,” said Ms. Gelske, pointing out that sensory discovery opportunities are expanding in Toledo and citing the Imagination Station, adaptive-type sports offered through the YMCA, and inclusive playgrounds.
Even Chuck E. Cheese on Monroe Street offers Sensory Friendly Sundays from 9 to 11 a.m. the first Sunday of each month. There is no music, and loud games are turned off. There is no stage show. Lights are dimmed. There will be a warning before Chuck E appears and a separate space for kids who do not want to see the mascot.
“What we want is to create just the right challenge for the child,” said Ms. Gelske, adding that all children need to be awarded opportunities to explore their environments by incorporating all of their senses — no matter how they process that input.
First Published February 23, 2025, 5:00 a.m.
