Local Nonprofit Distributes Sensory Awareness Kits In Parma And Surrounding Suburbs

Connecting for Kids distributed more than 2,000 Sensory Awareness Kits to more than 50 preschools, daycare and community centers in Berea, Brecksville, Broadview Heights, Brook Park, Independence, Middleburg Heights, North Royalton, Parma, Parma Heights, and Strongsville during the month of February. The goal of these kits is to help area families identify sensory issues early. These kits have been generously donated by Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC, Church of the Resurrection and the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem.

Featuring an Ollie the Octopus doll, each kit also contains a card with “sensory red flags” that describe in easy-to-understand terms how families can identify if their child might be at risk.

According to research statistics found on the STAR Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder website, “1 in every 6 children experiences sensory symptoms that may be significant enough to affect aspects of everyday life functions.”

Often, these children are “labeled” as behavior problems, impulsive, overactive or shy. But in reality, sometimes these behaviors can be attributed to sensory processing issues where the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. The phenomenon may also explain some behaviors such as refusing to wear certain clothing, being bothered by noises or avoiding foods with unusual textures. Once families learn the root cause of these behaviors and know how to address them, they are given hope.

 About Connecting for Kids

Connecting for Kids (CFK) provides education and support to families with concerns about their child. We serve all families, including those children with and without formal diagnoses. CFK offers educational programs, support groups, a Parent Match Program and numerous resources.

For more information about Connecting for Kids, visit: www.connectingforkids.org, email: info@connectingforkids.org or call: 440-570-5908.