Hey {{first_name}}
You’ve probably heard that ADHD is about focus, attention, and impulse control but there’s a big piece that often gets overlooked: sensory processing.
Most children with ADHD experience some level of sensory difference. In fact, research suggests that 40–60% of kids with ADHD also have sensory processing challenges.
That’s because ADHD also impacts how the brain filters and responds to sensory input.
Many kids with ADHD may feel everything a little more intensely: sounds seem louder, lights brighter, small movements or clothing textures can feel distracting or irritating. Other times, their body craves more input like movement, pressure, or fidgeting to stay alert and regulated. When their nervous system gets overwhelmed, it can look like “can’t sit still,” “easily distracted,” or “doesn’t listen.” But underneath those behaviors is often a child who’s struggling to organize sensory input.
✨ How Sensory Differences Show Up in Kids with ADHD
You might notice:
Constant movement seeking: jumping, crashing, constantly chewing on things, touching everything.
Easily distracted by noise, textures, or visual clutter.
Difficulty sitting still for meals, homework, or class time.
Trouble with transitions or emotional outbursts that seem to come out of nowhere.
A need for intense input (like rough play or deep pressure) to feel regulated.
💡 What Helps
Supporting the sensory side of ADHD often means giving the body what it needs before attention and behavior fall apart.
Try building in:
Movement breaks between focused tasks (5 minutes of jumping, wall push-ups, or animal walks). This is a great idea for ALL students, even if they don’t have an ADHD diagnosis.
Fidget tools or alternative seating to help the body stay busy and their brains focused.
Heavy work throughout the day: carrying groceries, pushing laundry baskets, wiping windows, yoga, or outdoor play.
Calming sensory input when overstimulated: dim lights, noise-canceling headphones, lower your voice, deep pressure hugs.
Predictable routines with visual schedules to reduce sensory and executive-function overload.
👉 If your child craves movement but seems dysregulated even if they’re constantly moving around, my Sensory Movement Activity Collection is full of OT-designed ideas to help them regulate and focus through play and movement. The goal is always purposeful movement!!
Important note: sensory strategies aren’t a replacement for other ADHD supports, but when used together, they can make an enormous difference in regulation, attention, and participation in everyday activities.
If you’re looking for 1:1 support, it’s okay to ask for help! I’m now accepting new clients and you can use this link to book a free call with me so you can see if we’re a good fit and to chat about working together.
And always remember: you are the expert on your child. Trust your intuition, adapt strategies to fit their needs, and know that sensory + ADHD support is never one-size-fits-all.
Reply to this email or send me a DM if you have any questions, I’d love to chat!
See you next week,
Effie
