Sensory Processing

We feel regulated when our cup is filled the right amount.

Every person has an invisible "sensory cup" inside them—a container that fills up with the sights, sounds, textures, smells, and movements they experience throughout the day. Some have large cups that can take in a lot of sensory input before they react, while others have smaller cups that overflow more easily. When that cup spills over, we might see big

emotions, shutdowns, hyperactivity, or other behaviors that reflect dysregulation. For parents, it’s helpful to understand that these behaviors aren’t intentional misbehavior—they’re signs that a child’s nervous system is either overwhelmed or under-stimulated.

This idea connects closely with Dunn’s Model of Sensory Processing, which explains that each person has a unique neurological threshold for sensory input and a preferred way of responding to it. For example, a child with a low threshold and passive response may be easily overwhelmed by sensory input but not actively avoid it—leading to what looks like

irritability or fatigue. On the other hand, a high-threshold, active-seeking child might constantly move, touch everything, or make noise to get enough stimulation to feel regulated. Parents can start to notice these patterns and use them to

anticipate their child’s needs, rather than reacting to the behavior after it happens.

When parents begin to understand their child’s sensory profile—and their “cup” size and fill rate—it becomes easier to support regulation throughout the day. If a child is sensory-seeking, you might offer jumping, swinging, or crunchy snacks to help fill their cup in a structured way. If their cup is getting too full, calming activities like dim lights, deep pressure, or quiet time can help prevent meltdowns. Recognizing these needs allows parents to shift from managing behaviors to proactively supporting their child’s nervous system. It's not about fixing the child, it's about meeting them where they are,

with compassion and a growing awareness of how their sensory world shapes their experience.

Written by Andrea Prasil, MS, OTR/L