Small things bother kids with sensory processing disorder, but skeptics scoff at diagnosis

It's unbearable to wear clothing with tags. It's impossible to use scissors, no matter how many times you try. All mushy or soft foods are unbearable — not because of the flavor, but the consistency.

Depending on whom you ask, it's either common childhood behavior, a neurological disorder that requires intervention or something in between. It s name is sensory processing disorder, and it occurs, advocates say, when the brain cannot properly process incoming signals for an appropriate response.

Sensory research is still young; prominent California occupational therapist and psychologist A. Jean Ayres began studying sensory integration problems only in the 1960s. Many skeptics scoff at the notion of such a disorder and say the root of the problem has more to do with bad behavior or neurological immaturity.

But families who live with it and the occupational therapists who treat children with the issue say there's no doubt it exists.

To have sensory processing disorder, experts say there must be a significant effect on daily routine. The disorder is usually found in children, though adults can have it, too.

"Everything's coming in and getting messed up for them," said Heidi Tringali, a Charlotte, N.C., occupational therapist who sees a lot of children with sensory issues. "It tastes too strong, smells too strong. They're just disrupted — and their existence is so much more difficult than just a typical developing child."

There have been few published studies on the prevalence of SPD. But one study done in association with the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation estimates that one in six children is affected by sensory issues, which can range from mild to severe. However, SPD has not yet been officially recognized by the American Psychiatric Association.

It's important to note the differences between a child with sensory processing disorder and a child who's just picky or problematic, experts say. For example, a typical child who steps from an air-conditioned room outside into the heat may whine and complain for a bit. But for a child with sensory problems, it can be almost unbearable.

A typical child who complains that a poke feels like a shove may just be trying to get attention or pick a fight. But to a child with sensory problems, that poke really does feel like a shove.

Kids can be clumsy, but children with sensory problems may struggle in vain to write with a pencil because the motor skills are just so off. Academic and social problems often ensue.