How do you know, or figure out if, your baby has sensory problems or if they are just afraid to eat cause they know it's going to hurt them?

The OT we saw suggested that since Sydney's older brother has sensory processing disorder, that she probably has it too seeing as she gags when she puts certain toys in her mouth.

Hi Catt:

Tell your OT to put the brakes on! Sydney does not necessarily have a sensory processing disorder just because she gags when she puts toys in her mouth....SHEESH!!!! That's a big generalization from one behavior. As allied health care professionals, we are trained not to throw out diagnoses until reliable and valid assessments are performed and confirmed. In addition, developmental pediatricians are more likely to make such a diagnosis. That's like saying a child has an ear infection if they tug on their ear. Well, not really. They could be cutting teeth, or it could be a calming mechanism, etc.

Sydney has a history of GERD, and many GERD babies have a hyper-sensitive gag. Many of them also self-gag. They will often stick a fist in their mouth or even a toy and set off their gag. Many GERD babies are especially oral because the sucking mechanism is soothing for their reflux. Yes, Sydney may have a sensory processing disorder like her brother, but let's not put the cart before the horse. Look for other symptoms first and do a Sensory Profile. Do you see any other signs Catt? I always trust my mom's because their instincts are usually right :) You have one child with SPD, so you would know if your other child has some of the same symptoms. It may be too early to tell.

Robynne