Sensory Integration in Babies: Early Development and What to Look For
Author: Kristina Rautek Potocnik, BA (Hons) Ed. Rehab., HDip Early Childhood Studies, MA Early Intervention & Inclusion, Cert. Play Therapy | SI | ASD | Reflexes | ABA, ongoing MSc SLT
Sensory Integration in Babies: Early Development and What to Look For
Did you know that sensory integration starts while the baby is still in the womb? After birth, it continues to grow and helps babies learn how to move, play, and interact with the world. Sensory development is most active from birth to age seven. That is why it is important to observe your baby’s development and notice any early signs of difficulty.
When a baby is born, they already have natural abilities and interests. These are shaped by the environment around them. Research shows that the brain grows and changes the most in the first few years of life. Every time a baby sees something new, feels a texture, or hears a sound, the brain makes tiny connections between nerve cells. These connections help the baby learn. The time before age three is the most important period for learning. Babies need a fun, safe, and interesting space to explore and grow through play.
In the beginning, babies use only their reflexes to connect with the world. They suck, look, and grab without thinking. Soon they repeat actions that feel nice, like sucking their thumb. They begin to use all their senses to understand their surroundings. They look, touch, listen, taste, and move. These senses help babies stay curious. Curiosity helps babies learn to reach, crawl, and move.
At around four to eight months, babies begin to reach for toys or touch things on purpose. If you hide a toy under a blanket, a young baby may not look for it. Later, when the baby understands that things still exist even when they are not visible, they start to search for the toy. This is part of learning about the world. Babies then start to copy sounds and actions from others.
Some babies may show signs of sensory difficulties. A baby might become upset by loud noises, bright lights, or soft touches. This means the brain is having trouble understanding different messages from the senses. Some babies react too strongly. Others do not react much at all. For example, a baby who has trouble with sensory input may cry more when rocked or touched, while a baby without sensory issues may find this calming and fun.
If you think your baby may be struggling with sensory integration, it is helpful to talk to a specialist. A sensory integration therapist will observe your baby during everyday activities like feeding, changing, cuddling, and playing. The therapist will also watch how your baby reacts to lights, sounds, and movement, and how your baby connects with you.
After this first assessment, the therapist will talk with you and help create goals for therapy. Together, you can learn how to support your baby’s development through daily routines. One of the most important parts of this process is helping parents feel confident. The therapist will give advice and show you how everyday actions like touch, play, or movement can support your baby’s growth.
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