• Underresponsive: The brain doesn’t notice sensory input as quickly. A person may seem dreamy, sleepy, or constantly moving to seek stimulation.

   

Understanding this helps us see that certain behaviors, like fidgeting, withdrawing, or acting out, may be ways of coping with sensory overload or seeking stimulation.

Overresponsive: The brain reacts too strongly to sensory input. Everyday sensations like noise or touch can feel overwhelming.

We use the SPi Viewing Guide to look at behavior through a sensory lens.
Ask yourself:

• What is this person doing?
• Why might they be doing it?
• What sensory information might they be missing or avoiding?

This reflection often reveals what kind of support is needed, so it’s less about “fixing” behavior, more about understanding it.

Start small and practical:

• Offer movement breaks or quiet corners.
• Adjust lighting or sound levels.
• Use fidget tools or weighted items thoughtfully.
• Allow choices that match sensory needs (e.g. sitting vs. standing).

The goal isn’t to eliminate behavior but to make the environment more supportive, for focus, calm, and comfort.

Our resources (books and workshops and lectures) are for anyone who wants to better understand sensory processing from teachers and therapists to parents and caregivers. We adapt every session to the needs of your group or organization.

Yes! We’re happy to share our work online so you can join from anywhere in the world. We love connecting with communities who want to make sensory understanding part of everyday learning and care.

Monique Thoonsen has written several books about sensory processing, including two which have been translated in English: Sensory Solutions in the Classroom and Making Sense of Your Senses. You can find more information about these publications here or ask us directly via info@sensomatters.com

We’d love to hear from you, whether you have a question, want to organize a training, or just want to share your experience

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