This is the fourth installment in our Sensory Spotlight series.
The tactile system is responsible for the body’s ability to perceive pressure, temperature, traction, and pain. Children with tactile processing issues may have an unusually high or low pain threshold and be very particular about the texture of their clothing, toys, and other surfaces. You can read more about how the tactile system works on the STAR Institute’s website.
See below for a quick guide on identifying tactile seeking, avoiding, and discrimination issues in children.
Tactile Seekers May:
- Prefer toys, clothing, and food with varied or specific textures.
- Constantly touch or fiddle with clothing, surfaces, or other objects.
- Crave hugs, kisses, and other frequent or prolonged contact with others.
- Prefer messy play and activities, such as finger paint, play doh, and sand.
- Tend to play too rough and accidentally harm others while playing.
- Have difficulty recognizing and respecting others’ personal boundaries.
- Have a higher than normal pain threshold and might not notice minor injuries.
Tactile Avoiders May:
- Avoid toys, clothing, or food with specific textures.
- Dislike being touched, hugged, or kissed, even by parents.
- Avoid getting dirty and avoid playing in sand, dirt, or grass.
- Dislike their hair or skin being wet and avoid swimming and bathing.
- Refuse to wear tight, scratchy, or uncomfortable clothing with seams or tags.
- Avoid play with other children and constantly worry about being touched or bumped.
- Become anxious in crowded spaces or when standing even somewhat close to others.
- Have a low pain threshold and respond to even light touch as if in pain.
Those with Tactile Discrimination Disorder May:
- Not notice when they’re being touched.
- Be unable to gauge the temperature of food and drinks.
- Have difficulty identifying or distinguishing objects by feel.
- Tend to play too rough and accidentally injure themselves or others.
- Have difficulty recognizing and respecting others’ personal boundaries.
- Have a high pain threshold and might not notice minor injuries.
- Use too much pressure when writing or playing and frequently break pencils or toys.
- Have difficulty performing certain motor tasks, such as getting dressed or riding a bike.