Sensory Processing Capacity Building Manual

The Sensory Processing Manual is an essential guide for understanding and supporting your child’s sensory needs across all environments. Children of all skills, not just with disabilities or additional needs often experience the world through a different sensory lens, which can significantly impact their behaviour, learning, attention, and daily participation. This manual explains the eight sensory systems, not just the five we commonly think of, including proprioception, vestibular, and interoception. You’ll learn how sensory processing works, how it affects behaviour and development, and how to identify whether your child may be over- or under-responsive to various sensory input. With clear, family-friendly explanations, the manual offers strategies and routines to support sensory regulation at home, school, and in the community. Whether your child seeks movement constantly, avoids certain textures, is bothered by sounds, or has trouble sitting still, this guide provides some real-world solutions to meet their unique needs. You’ll find practical tools like sensory profile information, activity ideas for each sensory area, and environmental adaptations to create calming or alerting spaces. This resource can be used in collaboration with an occupational therapist or independently by families looking to better understand their child. By understanding and supporting your child’s sensory needs, you’ll reduce stress, improve participation, and increase their comfort and confidence in navigating everyday life. This manual helps you become a more attuned, responsive caregiver, equipping you to advocate for and support your child across all settings.