Does this replace input from an occupational therapist?

No. This workshop builds general awareness and everyday strategies for educators; it does not replace individual assessment or intervention from an occupational therapist.

How do I tell the difference between sensory overload and defiance?

Sensory overload often has physical warning signs — covering ears, avoiding textures, seeking movement — that build before a behaviour occurs, whereas defiance is usually more situational. The session gives you a checklist to help spot the difference.

Is messy play safe for children who are sensory avoidant?

Yes, with the right approach. The workshop covers how to introduce sensory play at the child's own pace, including alternatives like tools or gloves for children who avoid direct touch.

Will this help us support a child who struggles with transitions?

Yes, sensory overload is a common driver of transition difficulties, and this workshop pairs well with our Supporting Transitions Throughout the Day session.

Is this suitable for baby room staff as well as preschool staff?

Yes, sensory development begins in infancy, and examples are included across the baby, toddler and preschool age ranges.

For early years educators

Sensory Processing in Early Childhood

Sensory processing shapes how a child experiences everything from mealtimes to messy play. This workshop explains the sensory systems in plain language, helps educators recognise signs of sensory seeking or avoiding, and offers practical adjustments that make daily routines easier for sensitive children and calmer for the whole room.

Led by Amy Byrne — BA (Hons) Level 8 in Early Childhood Education and Care, currently studying a Level 9 postgraduate in play therapy, Children First trained and a Mandated Person. One hour, with a take-home booklet and a dated certificate of attendance.

See dates & book Request this as a private session

Who this is for

For educators and room leaders who want a clearer understanding of sensory processing and practical ways to support children day to day.

What we cover in the hour

The main sensory systems, including the lesser-known vestibular and proprioceptive senses.
Recognising signs of sensory seeking versus sensory avoiding behaviour.
How sensory overload can look like 'challenging behaviour' at first glance.
Simple environmental adjustments to reduce sensory overwhelm in a group setting.
Building sensory breaks into transitions and busy periods of the day.
Introducing sensory play safely and meaningfully for the whole group.

What you'll leave with

A plain-language guide to the sensory systems.
A seeking-versus-avoiding signs checklist.
Three environmental tweaks to reduce sensory overload.
A sensory-break routine you can slot into transitions.
Ideas for whole-group sensory play activities.

Inside the booklet

The booklet includes the sensory systems guide, the seeking-versus-avoiding checklist and a set of ready-to-use sensory break ideas.

This workshop supports the Aistear theme of Wellbeing and links to Síolta Standard 2, Environments, in considering how physical spaces meet children's sensory needs.

How it can be delivered

Delivery formats and prices for Sensory Processing in Early Childhood
Format	Price
Public ticket — live onlineOne hour, small group, booklet emailed	€20 per person
Public ticket — in personOne hour in a venue near you, booklet in hand	€35 per person
Private 1:1 with Amy30 minutes €25 · full hour €50 (3 for €135)	from €25
Private group — onlineParent evening or staff session, minimum 5	€35 per person
Private group — in personYour setting or venue, minimum 6	€45 per person

No VAT and no booking fees. An itemised receipt is emailed instantly, and invoices are available before you book. Running this across a whole setting? Setting packages start at €399.

Common questions

Does this replace input from an occupational therapist?: No. This workshop builds general awareness and everyday strategies for educators; it does not replace individual assessment or intervention from an occupational therapist.
How do I tell the difference between sensory overload and defiance?: Sensory overload often has physical warning signs — covering ears, avoiding textures, seeking movement — that build before a behaviour occurs, whereas defiance is usually more situational. The session gives you a checklist to help spot the difference.
Is messy play safe for children who are sensory avoidant?: Yes, with the right approach. The workshop covers how to introduce sensory play at the child's own pace, including alternatives like tools or gloves for children who avoid direct touch.
Will this help us support a child who struggles with transitions?: Yes, sensory overload is a common driver of transition difficulties, and this workshop pairs well with our Supporting Transitions Throughout the Day session.
Is this suitable for baby room staff as well as preschool staff?: Yes, sensory development begins in infancy, and examples are included across the baby, toddler and preschool age ranges.

Related workshops

More in this theme: Sensory play · All workshop themes · Upcoming dates

Available live online across Ireland, and in person in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Louth, Cork and other counties.

Trusted early years resources

Every workshop is grounded in Irish early years frameworks and national guidance.

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