Book Contents
Raising a Sensory Smart Child

Foreword by Temple Grandin xi

Preface to the New Edition xv

Acknowledgements xxi

Introduction 1

PART ONE:

Recognizing and Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Issues

Chapter 1: Why Is My Child So… Unusual? 11

Chapter 2: The Seven Senses 28

Chapter 3: Tuning in to Your Child 50

Chapter 4: Where Did the Wires Cross? 64

PART TWO:

Addressing Your Child’s Sensory Needs

Chapter 5: Finding and Working with an Occupational Therapist 87

Chapter 6: The Sensory Diet of Daily Activities 103

Chapter 7: Practical Solutions for Everyday Sensory Problems 136

• Self-Care Challenges: Grooming, Dressing, Eating, and Toileting

  • Grooming
  • Bathing
  • Diaper changes
  • Hair washing, brushing and cutting
  • Toothbrushing
  • Tooth grinding
  • Trimming nails
  • Clothing and underwear
  • Eyeglasses
  • Hats, gloves, and mittens
  • Helmets
  • Shoes, shoelaces, and boots
  • Potty training
  • Bed wetting
  • Meal time
  • Swallowing and taking capsules
  • Potty training
  • Bed wetting

• Special Times, At Home and Away

  • Amusement parks
  • Bike Riding
  • Parties and gatherings
  • Dentist and doctor
  • Outdoor events
  • Public bathrooms
  • Shopping trips
  • Summer camp
  • Swimming
  • Waiting in line

• Home Environment

  • Bathroom
  • Bedroom
  • Lighting
  • Noise and smell reduction
  • Room décor

• Miscellaneous Challenges

  • Car rides
  • Elevators, escalators, and sliding glass doors
  • Hand flapping and head banging
  • Temperature sensitivity
  • General noise sensitivity
  • Fear of specific noises
  • Personal space issues
  • Picking up toys
  • Toe walking
  • Quick tips for calming an overwhelmed child

• Practical Tips for Teens and Adults

  • Environmental issues
  • Learning to drive and driving
  • Doctor and dentist visits

PART THREE:

Fostering Your Child’s Development

Chapter 8: Dealing with Developmental Delays 189

Chapter 9: Sensory Issues and the Child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder 220

Chapter 10: Improving Speech Skills and Picky Eating 236

Chapter 11: Helping Your Child to Learn and Get Organized 256

Chapter 12: Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress 283

Chapter 13: Complementary Therapies and Approaches 299

PART FOUR:

Parenting with Sensory Smarts

Chapter 13: Handling Discipline, Transitions, and Behavioral Issues 313

Chapter 14: Advocating for Your Child at School 332

Chapter 15: The Special Challenges for Teenagers 355

Chapter 16: Empowering Your Child in the World 364

PART FIVE

Recommended Products and Resources

Sources for Useful Toys, Equipment, and Products 381

Photos of Toys, Equipment and Products 390

Lindsey and Nancy’s Fifty Favorite Toys 399

Organizations and Web Sites 402

Notes 412

Index 424

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