Free sensory awareness kits available at Connecting for Kids Meet and Greet on April 19

Many children labeled as a behavior problem, impulsive, overactive or shy may actually be struggling with sensory processing issues where the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. According to research statistics found on the STAR Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder website, “1 in every 6 children experiences sensory symptoms that may be significant enough to affect aspects of everyday life functions.”

The phenomenon may also explain some behaviors such as refusing to wear certain clothing, being bothered by noises or avoiding foods with unusual textures. Once families learn the root cause of these behaviors and ways to address them, they are given hope, but early identification is key.

To help area families identify sensory issues, Connecting for Kids will offer free Sensory Awareness Kits featuring Ollie the Octopus to all preschool families (with children ages 3-5 years) that attend the Meet and Greet on Thursday, April 19, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Don Umerley Civic Center, 21016 Hilliard Blvd. in Rocky River. These kits have been generously donated by EY.

In addition, they will also receive a card with “sensory red flags” that describe in easy-to-understand terms how parents can identify if their child might be at risk. All families can get their questions answered at the event from an occupational therapist. More than 70 local organizations will be represented at the Meet and Greet including therapists, after-school programs and summer camps.

For more information and to register, visit www.connectingforkids.org/meetandgreet. For questions about the event, please contact Laurie Demchak at lauriedemchak@connectingforkids.org or 440-250-5563.

Lorilynn Wolf

Lorilynn Wolf serves as the Communications Director for Connecting for Kids.

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Volume 10, Issue 7, Posted 9:41 AM, 04.03.2018