Disrupted Sensory Processing: The Impact of Early Trauma on Sensorimotor Systems

Early disruption — including prematurity, medical intervention, environmental stress, neglect or trauma — can affect the development of a child’s foundational sensorimotor systems. When children cannot regulate physically, everyday environments can feel overwhelming and unsafe.

This session explores behaviour, relationships and learning through a sensory processing lens. Using body-up regulation principles, we will examine how strengthening vestibular, proprioceptive and tactile foundations supports emotional stability, connection and readiness to learn.

Participants will gain practical insight into how early experiences shape the nervous system — and leave with greater clarity and confidence in supporting children in their everyday environments.