SPD and Motor Delays

Rachel Sonnier · January 2013

I am wondering if some of the SPD moms here can shed some light on this for me. I am wondering exactly how sensory processing deficits are associated with fine and gross motor delays? Are they two separate issues that are often seen together, or do the sensory issues cause the motor delays? How? Why? Please tell me everything you know. This is all so new and foreign to me. They suggested that I read "The Out of Sync Child," so I am about to start on that, hoping to glean a bit of info there as well. Thanks!

kcisthebombdotcom · January 2013

I believe it's because sensory dysfunction can cause issues with motor planning. That makes coordinated movements a child needs to make to master gross/fine motor skills more challenging.

mom2pottamus · January 2013

We just found out my DS has a fine motor delay and has sensory issues with touch-he avoids playdough, paint, clay, glue, even getting his hands wet--so I see how avoiding messy things can hinder his fine motor. He hasn't started his therapy yet but I suspect in order to improve his fine motor, we are going to have to work on resolving both issues to get him to where he needs to be.

Rachel Sonnier · January 2013

Thank you all so much!! I really appreciate the info.

robynlesley · January 2013

Late again (darn work taking over bumping), but I'm learning much more about how these two combine. What auntie wrote with regards to motor planning and precioperative glitches nearly fits my DS to a T, except for the toe walking, which he does not do.

DS has a provisional dx of SPD--his developmental pediatrician feels he could "outgrow" a lot of it, as sensory issues apparently peak at age 3--and he also has gross motor delays. DS doesn't toe walk, but he seems to use the front part of his foot and stumbles a lot. He has motor planning problems and still, at nearly 3.5, doesn't jump well. He cannot jump down off a step stool and doesn't alternate feet going down stairs (up he does OK). Fine motor skills are at age level as are most other areas.

robynlesley · January 2013

Thanks for that explanation. It's quite confusing to me overall.

I did bring up his walk to the developmental pediatrician last week. She suggested a closer look at his feet and to see if he needs orthotics. I had an issue with my heels turning in (my shoes would wear out on the inside) and a shuffle. Prior to my pregnancy and increase in shoe size, I had custom orthotics for my high arches.

I just want to help him learn these skills--ie. jumping, pedaling, etc.--without frustrating either one of us and making it fun.

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SPD and Motor Delays

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