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Tactile Sensitivity Checklist
Most people know that problems can arise with the sense
of hearing and the sense of sight, but few people realize
that problems can also arise with the sense of touch.
Tactile problems can arise in many ways and have serious
effects on a child's behavior and ability to learn. Children
with tactile problems are frequently mis-diagnosed as
having ADD/ADHD.
Before starting an ADD/ADHD program, make sure that your
child does not have a tactile problem instead - they are
sometimes hard to spot, and very few physicians look out
for them. Occupational therapists usually treat tactile
disorders, without medication.
Tactile Sensitivities Quiz
Check all that apply, even if they only apply when your
child is tired or irritable.
My child:
___ is particularly sensitive to temperature (things
are often too hot or too cold)
___ insists on always wearing the same clothes or type
of clothes (this can vary widely. Look for: only wears
soft T-shirts with short sleeves; only wears long sleeves;
will never wear a sweatshirt or jacket no matter how cold;
will always wear a sweatshirt or jacket no matter how
hot; will only wear long pants; will only wear shorts
even if it's snowing).
___ insists on having clothes that are either very tight
or very loose, especially around the waist.
___ hates baths, or is always taking baths.
___ insists on water that is either very hot or not hot
at all.
___ hates haircuts and having his/her hair brushed.
___ hates having his/her teeth brushed.
___ always insists on wearing a hat, or flatly refuses
to wear them.
___ complains about clothing, like the tags on shirts
or the seams in socks.
___ is either very sensitive to being touched, or is
not sensitive at all (e.g., does not notice major cuts
and gashes until someone points them out).
___ either does not like to play with other children
or plays far too roughly with them.
___ hits, kicks, or bites with little provocation.
___ only likes very light hugs, or only likes bear hugs.
___ overreacts to minor scratches or does not react at
all, even to major cuts.
___ is a picky eater (especially about foods that are
"too slimy" or "too crunchy").
___ is bothered by background noises or loud sounds.
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