{"id":20671,"date":"2023-07-01T07:10:18","date_gmt":"2023-07-01T12:10:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/?p=20671"},"modified":"2023-08-31T07:47:02","modified_gmt":"2023-08-31T12:47:02","slug":"cvi-and-sensory-overload-guide-for-parents","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/guides\/cvi-and-sensory-overload-guide-for-parents\/","title":{"rendered":"CVI and Sensory Overload Guide for Parents"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As parents, you always aim to provide the best for your children and ensure you comprehend their needs. Cortical\/cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is a condition related to visual impairments that demands attention and understanding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Since <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2021\/02\/210203090504.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">one in every 30 children may be affected by CVI<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it is important to become educated on the condition and its associated challenges. In this article, we delve into the world of CVI, its causes, common symptoms, and how to recognize this condition in your child.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is CVI?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cortical visual impairment, also called cerebral visual impairment, refers to a condition where the brain has difficulty processing visual information. Unlike ocular visual impairment, where the problem lies in the eyes, CVI stems from the brain&#8217;s visual processing centers. This means children with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.perkins.org\/what-is-cvi\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CVI may have structurally normal eyes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> but struggle to understand what they see.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding CVI is crucial for parents and caregivers to provide the necessary support and accommodations to help their child navigate the challenges associated with this condition.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common causes<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CVI can have various causes, and it&#8217;s important to note that each child&#8217;s situation is unique. Some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nei.nih.gov\/learn-about-eye-health\/eye-conditions-and-diseases\/cerebral-visual-impairment-cvi\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">common causes of CVI include<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Birth-related complications<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: CVI can be <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/pr201583\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">caused by premature birth, low birth weight<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and conditions such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE).<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Brain injury<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Traumatic brain injury, stroke or infection affecting the brain can lead to CVI.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Developmental abnormalities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Certain brain abnormalities or genetic conditions \u2014 such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cprn.org\/cerebral-palsy-and-vision\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cerebral palsy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or epilepsy \u2014 may be associated with CVI.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These causes can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5989503\/\"><span>lead to neurological damage<\/span><\/a><span> that impairs the brain&#8217;s visual pathways. As a result, children with CVI may experience difficulty processing and interpreting visual information.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common symptoms<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s crucial to recognize the symptoms of CVI to provide early intervention and support. While the severity and manifestation of symptoms can vary among children, some common signs of CVI may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Difficulty with visual recognition<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Children with CVI may <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.perkins.org\/cvi-visual-recognition\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">struggle to recognize familiar faces<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and objects or visually navigate their surroundings.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Visual field deficits<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: They may have difficulty seeing objects or people in certain areas of their visual field.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Sensitivity to light<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Children with CVI might be sensitive to bright lights or exhibit discomfort in visually busy environments.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Lack of visual attention<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: They may appear disinterested in visually stimulating objects or need help to sustain visual attention.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These symptoms may overlap with other developmental or visual conditions. Consulting with a healthcare professional specializing in visual impairments can help caregivers confirm the presence of CVI and guide further evaluation and treatment.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recognizing CVI<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recognizing CVI in your child can be challenging, especially in its early stages. However, some key indicators can help identify whether your child may be experiencing CVI:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Unusual visual behaviors<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Look for atypical observable behaviors such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.perkins.org\/ocular-motor-conditions-and-cvi\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">unusual eye movements<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, gaze preference or a lack of response to visual stimuli.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Inconsistent visual abilities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Notice if your child&#8217;s visual skills fluctuate or vary in different environments or lighting conditions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty with visual tasks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Observe if your child struggles with tasks that require optical recognition, such as identifying colors, objects or people.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Understanding the underlying cause of your child&#8217;s behaviors is crucial for providing appropriate support, even if these behaviors are difficult to comprehend.<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are sensory processing disorders?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sensory-processing-disorder.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sensory processing disorders<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (SPD) refer to medical conditions in which the brain does not process sensory information from the environment in a typical way. While most of us can filter and interpret sensory stimuli effectively, individuals with SPD may struggle with sensory integration, leading to sensory overload or sensory-seeking behaviors.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common symptoms<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sensory-processing-disorder.com\/sensory-processing-disorder-checklist.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms of SPD<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can manifest differently in each individual, but some common signs to look out for include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Sensory sensitivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Children with SPD may exhibit extreme reactions to sensory stimuli, such as becoming overwhelmed by certain sounds, textures, tastes or smells.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sensory seeking<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Some individuals with SPD actively seek out intense sensory experiences, such as spinning, rocking or seeking deep pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Poor sensory discrimination<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Difficulties distinguishing between different sensations or interpreting sensory input accurately may be observed in individuals with SPD.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Motor coordination issues<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: SPD can affect motor skills, leading to challenges with fine motor tasks, balance or coordination.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It&#8217;s important to note that these symptoms can vary in intensity and presentation among individuals with SPD. Attending to your child&#8217;s specific needs and consulting with an experienced healthcare professional can help you identify the condition and create a plan for long-term management.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recognizing SPD<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recognizing SPD in your child can be challenging, as the symptoms may overlap with other conditions or developmental challenges. However, some indicators that may suggest the presence of SPD include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Consistent behavioral patterns<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Notice if your child consistently exhibits extreme reactions to certain sensory stimuli or engages in repetitive sensory-seeking behaviors.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Difficulty with transitions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/healthtimes.com.au\/hub\/psychology\/9\/guidance\/hw\/trouble-with-transitions-supporting-children-with-change\/5699\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individuals with SPD may struggle with transitioning<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> between activities or environments due to sensory overload.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Challenges in social situations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Difficulty socializing or participating in group activities may be attributed to difficulties processing sensory information.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you suspect your child may have SPD, seeking professional evaluation from an occupational therapist or developmental specialist can provide a clearer understanding of their sensory processing difficulties.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comorbidities and related conditions<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SPD can often coexist with other conditions or may be associated with specific developmental challenges. Some commonly observed comorbidities or related disorders include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Many individuals with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autismparentingmagazine.com\/autism-sensory-processing-disorder\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ASD experience sensory processing difficulties<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The sensory challenges in ASD can significantly impact daily functioning and contribute to behavioral and social problems.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/adhd-sensory-overload\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children with ADHD may struggle with regulating their responses to sensory input<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or have heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Anxiety disorders<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Sensory processing difficulties may be <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6629761\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">linked to increased anxiety levels<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in some individuals.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Understanding the potential comorbidities and related conditions associated with SPD in your child is crucial for comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning.<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding the relationship between SPD and CVI<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CVI and SPD are closely interconnected, as both conditions involve difficulties in processing and integrating sensory information. Understanding this relationship can provide caregivers with valuable insights into how to support children who experience both CVI and SPD.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sensory integration<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559155\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sensory integration<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is when the brain takes in information from the body&#8217;s senses and uses it to respond appropriately. In the case of CVI, the brain&#8217;s capacity for efficient sensory integration may be compromised. When multiple senses are being activated simultaneously, such as in visually busy or overstimulating environments, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.perkins.org\/cvi-sensory-integration-and-its-impact-on-vision\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">relying on vision can become challenging<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or even impossible for children with CVI.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Due to these challenges, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.perkins.org\/what-are-cvi-meltdowns\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CVI meltdowns can occur when a child experiences sensory overload<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or becomes overwhelmed by abundant sensory stimuli. These meltdowns are intense reactions triggered by the brain&#8217;s inability to process and manage unfamiliar situations. The child may become distressed, exhibit challenging behaviors or withdraw in an attempt to cope with the overwhelming sensory input.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parents and caregivers need to understand that these meltdowns are not deliberate but rather a manifestation of the child&#8217;s sensory challenges. Creating a calm and predictable environment, providing sensory breaks, and offering support during overwhelming situations can help you prevent or minimize the occurrence of CVI meltdowns.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treating SPD and CVI<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is important to take a comprehensive approach to effectively treat sensory processing disorders and cortical visual impairment. Being aware of the appropriate treatments for each condition can help parents and caregivers provide optimal support for a child&#8217;s sensory and visual requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treating CVI<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the case of CVI, collaborative assessments are crucial for determining the most effective treatment strategies. These assessments involve a multidisciplinary team of professionals who specialize in CVI. Here are some critical <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.perkins.org\/5-steps-to-take-after-a-cvi-diagnosis\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">components of a comprehensive CVI evaluation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>CVI comprehensive evaluation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Assesses the child&#8217;s visual abilities and identifies specific visual impairments. This includes detailed observations of the child&#8217;s responses to visual stimuli, evaluation of visual fields, and assessment of visual acuity. The results of this evaluation help determine the child&#8217;s functional vision and guide intervention planning.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ocular functional assessment<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The process aims to evaluate and enhance a child&#8217;s visual health and abilities, including checking for eye structure and health, testing vision clarity and identifying any ocular irregularities that can affect eyesight. A teacher of the visually impaired, with expertise in CVI, usually performs the assessment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Orientation and mobility evaluation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A specialist assesses the child&#8217;s ability to navigate and move within their environment. This evaluation helps determine spatial awareness, balance or mobility challenges that may impact a child&#8217;s independence and safety.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Therapy evaluation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: It is best to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/procedure\/occupational-therapy-consultation-1922\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">contact an occupational<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to assess the child&#8217;s overall motor skills, sensory processing and adaptive abilities. This evaluation helps identify specific areas of concern and guides the development of a tailored therapy plan.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Clinical ocular testing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Specialized assessments are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/eye-doctors\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">performed by an eye doctor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to obtain detailed information about a child&#8217;s visual abilities and to determine if they need glasses.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To create an effective treatment plan for CVI, it is vital to have a thorough understanding of the child&#8217;s vision loss, abilities and needs. The main aim of the treatment plan is to enhance functional vision and optimize learning opportunities by implementing individualized supportive strategies and interventions.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treating SPD<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When treating sensory processing disorders (SPD), caregivers typically use a combination of therapies to address the challenges associated with sensory integration. These therapies aim to improve sensory processing and help individuals effectively manage sensory input. Here are some commonly used treatments for SPD:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Physical therapy for sensory integration<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Focuses on enhancing motor skills, coordination and body awareness. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/physical-therapists\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physical therapists can help<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> individuals develop better <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/procedure\/sensory-integration-5800\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sensory integration<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, balance and overall movement control through specific exercises and activities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Vision therapy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This specialized form of therapy targets visual processing skills and aims to improve visual perception and coordination. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/doctors\/vision-therapists-near-me\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contacting a visual therapist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can help strengthen visual skills, such as eye tracking, visual discrimination and depth perception.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Listening therapy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This therapy utilizes specific sounds to stimulate the auditory system to enhance auditory processing and sensitivity. As a result, the treatment can have a beneficial effect on sensory integration.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Psychotherapy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/therapist-counselors\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Connecting with a therapist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can benefit individuals with SPD who experience emotional or behavioral challenges due to sensory difficulties. Through counseling and therapy sessions, patients can learn coping strategies, emotional regulation techniques and self-care strategies to better manage sensory overload and navigate daily life.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Speech and language therapy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Focuses on improving communication skills and language development in individuals with SPD. Therapists work on enhancing speech articulation, receptive and expressive language abilities, and social communication skills, which can be affected by sensory processing difficulties. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/doctors\/speech-pathologists\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Booking a speech therapist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a great way to address any communication issues related to sensory processing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By incorporating these therapies into a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals with SPD can develop effective strategies to navigate sensory experiences and improve their overall quality of life.<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adaptations and accommodations<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adapting to the environment and providing appropriate accommodations is essential for caregivers who are supporting individuals with cortical visual impairment and sensory processing disorders. These adjustments help create a sensory-friendly space that promotes well-being and reduces sensory overload.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Below are some examples of individual adaptations and accommodations for each specific condition. The techniques mentioned are only intended to give a basic understanding of the accommodations commonly used by individuals with CVI. So it is imperative to obtain a professional assessment to correctly identify the most suitable accommodations for each individual.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CVI adaptations and accommodations<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to cortical visual impairment, implementing adaptations and accommodations can greatly support individuals in maximizing their visual functioning and overall well-being. Here are some strategies that may be helpful:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Provide visual support<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Use large, clear fonts for written materials and provide visual aids, such as pictures or symbols, to aid in understanding.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Reduce visual clutter<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Minimize distractions and simplify visual environments by organizing and decluttering spaces. Use consistent and clear layouts for visual displays to improve visual processing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use lighting effectively<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Optimize lighting conditions by reducing glare and providing appropriate lighting levels. Use natural lighting when possible and provide dark space to create contrast.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Provide additional time<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Allow individuals with CVI more time to process visual information. Offer extended time for tasks and provide breaks to reduce visual fatigue.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Remember, these strategies serve as general suggestions, and the specific accommodations needed may vary based on individual needs.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SPD adaptations and accommodations<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to sensory processing disorders, creating a sensory-friendly environment and implementing adaptations and accommodations can significantly support individuals in managing sensory challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In general<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When managing SPDs, various strategies can be helpful to individuals in home and school settings. Here are some general approaches that can support individuals with SPD:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Maintaining routines<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Consistent routines provide a sense of predictability and stability, which can help individuals with SPD feel more secure and grounded. Stick to regular schedules for meals, bedtime and transitions between activities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Be clear and consistent with rules and consequences<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Establish clear rules and expectations, and ensure the results are consistent and logical. This helps individuals with SPD understand boundaries and promotes a sense of order and structure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Have a designated safe space for breaks and cool downs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Designate a quiet and comfortable area where individuals with SPD can retreat when they need a break. This space should have calming sensory tools, such as comfortable seating and fidget toys.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These accommodations can help individuals with SPD manage their sensory experiences and regulate responses to environmental stimuli.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At home<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Creating a sensory-friendly environment at home is crucial for individuals with SPD to thrive. Here are some strategies that can be implemented:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Create a sensory room<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Designate a specific room or area where your child can engage in sensory activities and find comfort. Fill this space with calming sensory tools, such as weighted blankets, sensory swings, stress balls or textured surfaces.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Managing visual sensitivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Use dimmer switches or adjustable lighting to control the intensity of lighting. Curtains or blinds can help regulate natural light. You can also provide sunglasses or hats with brims to shield the eyes from bright sunlight.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Managing hearing sensitivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Reduce background noise using sound-absorbing materials or adding carpets and rugs. Provide noise-canceling headphones or ear defenders to help reduce auditory input in noisy environments.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Managing touch sensitivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Offer a variety of textures and fabrics for your child to explore and interact with. Provide soft or weighted blankets, textured toys or pressure garments for comforting tactile sensations.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Managing taste sensitivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Be mindful of your child&#8217;s dietary preferences and sensitivities. Offer a variety of foods with different textures and flavors to encourage exploration and acceptance of different foods.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Managing smell sensitivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Use unscented or natural cleaning products and detergents to minimize strong odors in the environment. Avoid wearing heavily scented perfumes or using air fresheners that may be overwhelming.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Familiarizing and adapting to the environment to best support an individual&#8217;s sensory needs can help them to feel safe, secure and confident. Creating a sensory-friendly home environment is essential for individuals with SPD to thrive.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At school<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A supportive environment at school is essential for individuals with SPD to succeed academically and socially. Here are some strategies that can be implemented:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Flexible work areas and seating options<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Allow for flexible seating arrangements, such as using stable balls or wiggle cushions, to accommodate the need for movement and provide sensory input during learning tasks.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Movement breaks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Incorporate regular movement breaks into the daily schedule to allow individuals with SPD to release excess energy and regulate their sensory systems. These breaks can include stretching, jumping or engaging in calming activities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sensory toys and tools<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Give your children access to sensory toys and tools, such as textured objects, to help them self-regulate and maintain focus during classroom activities.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Parents and educators can create a supportive environment for individuals with SPD by using these strategies at home and school. This helps promote their sensory well-being, learning and social interactions.<\/p>\n<h1 style=\"text-align: center;\">Need a doctor? Find one on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/\">Zocdoc<\/a>.<\/h1>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As parents, you always aim to provide the best for your children and ensure you comprehend their needs. Cortical\/cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is a condition related to visual impairments that demands attention and understanding. Since one in every 30 children may be affected by CVI, it is important to become educated on the condition and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":82,"featured_media":20672,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[227],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-20671","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","specialist_by_city-ophthalmologists"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>CVI and Sensory Overload Guide for Parents - Guides<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn strategies for helping children with CVI manage sensory overload. 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