A child's sensory processing and sensory integration (SP-SI) differences can be a barrier to participation in daily life for both child and mother. Supporting mothers is advocated for, but little is known about the everyday experiences of these mothers. To gain an understanding of daily life for mothers and their children with SP-SI differences. Qualitative semi-structured interviews with six mothers were analyzed through thematic analysis. Theme 1 described the impact of child SP-SI on daily life, including challenges in occupations across environments, adaptations required, and the lack of knowledge and understanding from social and professional networks. Theme 2 identified what helps: empowering mothers through relationships based on listening, gaining knowledge, and understanding, and adapting the activity and the environment. Mothers report that their child's SP-SI differences impact daily occupations and social relationships. In addition, supportive relationships, adapting activities, and adapting the environment, support participation.
Keywords: occupation; parenting; participation; sensory integration.
What Is Daily Life Like When You Have a Child With Sensory Processing and Sensory Integration Differences?To develop a better understanding of everyday life with a child with sensory processing and sensory integration (SP-SI) differences, mothers were asked about their experiences. Six mothers were individually interviewed. They reported challenges to everyday life at home, at school, and in their local communities, for example, sleep, mealtimes, and leisure choices were impacted for both themselves and their child. They faced a lack of understanding from family, friends, and professionals, and had to adjust their activities and routines to accommodate for their child’s needs. It helped mothers to be listened to and to interact with other people who had knowledge and understanding of SP-SI differences. It also helped to be able to adjust activities, routines, and their environment to better suit their child’s sensory needs.