Pediatric Sensory Processing & Self-Regulation

Helping children feel calm, focused, and confident

At Daviess Community Hospital’s CORE Center, our pediatric occupational therapists help infants, toddlers, and children make sense of sensory input—what they see, hear, touch, taste, smell, and how their bodies move—so they can participate in daily routines with comfort and confidence. Using play-based, family-centered therapy, we support children who are sensory-seeking, sensory-sensitive/avoidant, or who struggle with self-regulation, attention, transitions, and classroom participation. Services are available in Washington and Odon, Indiana, and families visit us from across Southern Indiana.

Who may benefit

Consider a pediatric OT evaluation if your child:

• Is over- or under-responsive to sound, touch, movement, lights, or clothing textures
• Seeks constant movement (crashing, spinning, jumping) or avoids it (fearful on playgrounds)
• Has frequent meltdowns or difficulty with transitions and changes in routine
• Struggles to sit, attend, and focus during meals, story time, or classwork
• Avoids grooming tasks (hair brushing, nail clipping, toothbrushing) or certain clothing
• Tires easily during table activities; avoids hands-on play (glue, sand, finger paint)
• Has challenges with play skills, peer interaction, or participating in group activities

If your child has coughing/choking with foods or suspected aspiration, see Dysphagia Therapy. For sensory-based picky eating and oral-motor readiness, see Pediatric Feeding Therapy.

How CORE helps

Our pediatric OTs design individualized, evidence-guided plans that build comfort with sensory input and teach self-regulation strategies for real life. Therapy may include:

• Sensory modulation & self-regulation strategies to help children stay calm, alert, and ready to learn
• Play-based sensory experiences (movement, tactile, proprioceptive, vestibular) matched to a child’s needs
• Attention & arousal supports for seated work, circle time, and homework routines
• Transition tools and visual schedules for smoother changes between activities
• Body awareness & motor planning to support playground skills and safe movement
• Home and classroom strategies (environmental setup, task breakdown, sensory breaks)
• Caregiver coaching with simple routines that fit your family’s day

We collaborate with pediatricians, schools, and other therapists (OT/PT/SLP) to support progress across settings.

What to expect

Evaluation

We review development, medical history, and daily routines, then use observation and standardized tools to understand sensory modulation, self-regulation, attention, motor planning, and participation at home and school.

Personalized plan

Together, we set realistic goals (e.g., smoother morning routines, tolerating clothing textures, sitting through circle time, staying regulated in stores). Sessions are fun and active, with targeted sensory activities and practical strategies. You’ll receive easy home ideas that fit your schedule.

>Progress you can see

We monitor outcomes, adjust the plan as your child grows, and—with your permission—coordinate with teachers and providers to support carryover in every environment.

Locations and scheduling

CORE Center | 421 E. Van Trees Street, Washington, IN
CORE Center at North Daviess | 800 S. West Street, Odon, IN

Call (812) 254-8889 to schedule a pediatric OT evaluation or ask about referral requirements.
Many insurers require a physician referral—our team can help you determine next steps.

We welcome families from Daviess County and across Southern Indiana, including Washington, Odon, Jasper, Vincennes, Loogootee, Petersburg, Bloomfield, and neighboring communities.

FAQs

Is this the same as “sensory processing disorder (SPD)?”
“SPD” is a commonly used term, but not an official medical diagnosis. Our focus is on function—helping your child regulate, attend, and participate comfortably in daily routines.

Will therapy fix meltdowns?
Meltdowns often decrease as children learn regulation strategies and routines that match their sensory needs. We coach families on predictable supports that reduce triggers and build resilience.

How long does therapy take?
It varies by child and goals. Your therapist will discuss a plan and realistic timeline after evaluation.

Can you coordinate with my child’s school?
Yes. With your permission, we share practical recommendations that support success in the classroom.