Good evening Y’all-

While I sit here and enjoy my chocolate chip cookies & milk, I wonder how I became to be the mother of a sensational kid. As I ponder that question, another question pops into my head. Does it really matter? And the answer is No, it does not matter what my child has, doesn’t have, does or doesn’t do. He is my child and that IS ALL that matters.  But for those of you who need more clarification on the causes of SPD , this is for you. I was all about the “reasons” at first,  but now its just about  Landon. I know who Landon is, Landon is MY son  and no “term” will ever define who he is completely.

My 1 & Only Landon!

What Causes Sensory Processing Disorder?

There is no simple answer to this. Researchers know that SPD is a Neurological Disorder that can begin in utero and affects young children as well as adults. There does seem to be an appearance of a genetic component but it has not been 100% successfully marked.  Children/ Adults with other certain developmental issues or environmental issues can be at risk for developing SPD as well.

Children at risk for having or developing SPD are those who:

1. Have Autism, Aspergers, PDD, or other spectrum disorders (which are neurologically based too).
2. Have been institutionalized or under-stimulated during critical periods of neurological development.
3. Have been tube fed for extended periods of time (due to decreased oral stimulation and proper oral motor development).
4. Have Fragile X Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Down Syndrome, ADD/ADHD and other developmental delays and neurological disorders.
5. Were drug addicted during fetal development.
6. Have relatives with SPD, especially parents or siblings.
7. Do not receive proper, or enough, stimulation to all senses during development.
8. Had extended hospital stays, especially in the first year.
9. Have been exposed to a variety of environmental toxins.
10. Have food allergies.
11. Those with mental health issues .
12. Are gifted.

Getting a Diagnosis:

For those of you who are concerned that someone in your family or child may have SPD, please visit this website to answer the SPD checklist. Fill this out completely and ask to make an appointment with you doctor to discuss.

SPD Checklist

I hope this sheds some light onto the causes of SPD for some of you.  I know that I am blessed to have a Sensational kid because it helps me become a better person in my daily life. Patience, Understanding and compassion are big components in my day with Landon. I have learned to be more patient, understand his needs, and be compassionate to those who want to put Landon down. It may sound funny, but for those who look down upon Landon, its only because they are afraid of the unknown. Landon looks like a “normal” child, yet doesn’t behave like one. And as his mother, I have to show him how to treat others, even if they don’t treat us the same way in return.

Till next time,

Joy