Sensory Processing and Occupational Therapy: Supporting Children in Phnom Penh

Does your child cover their ears at loud sounds, avoid messy play, or seem constantly on the move? These may be signs of sensory processing difficulties—where the brain struggles to organize and respond to sensory input. Occupational therapy (OT) is one of the most effective ways to help children overcome these challenges and thrive in daily life.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our occupational therapists are trained in sensory integration strategies that help children regulate their responses to sound, touch, movement, and more.

What Is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing is the brain’s ability to receive and respond to information from the senses. These include:

• Sight

• Sound

• Touch

• Taste

• Smell

• Body awareness (proprioception)

• Balance and movement (vestibular)

When sensory processing is disrupted, children may:

• Become overwhelmed by noise or bright lights

• Avoid hugs or messy textures

• Seek constant movement (spinning, jumping)

• Show poor body awareness and clumsiness

• Have trouble staying calm or focused

Learn more about sensory sensitivity in children.

How Occupational Therapy Helps

At OrbRom Center, we use sensory integration therapy to help children process and respond to sensory input more effectively. Therapy sessions are play-based, structured, and tailored to each child’s needs.

Our OT sessions may include:

• Swinging and spinning for vestibular input

• Deep pressure and weighted blankets for calming

• Texture exploration through sensory bins

• Balance activities for body coordination

• Noise-canceling headphones to reduce auditory overload

See how sensory tools like vibrating pillows benefit children.

Common Signs a Child May Need Sensory Integration Therapy

If your child:

• Cries when hearing everyday sounds

• Avoids tags on clothing or brushing hair

• Struggles to sit still or focus

• Has frequent meltdowns in noisy environments

• Appears overly rough or clumsy
  —these could be signs of sensory processing difficulties.

A developmental assessment at OrbRom Center can help identify whether occupational therapy is recommended.

The Benefits of Sensory-Based OT

When children receive the right sensory input in a controlled, supportive environment, they begin to:

• Feel more comfortable in their body

• Reduce anxiety and meltdowns

• Improve attention and behavior at school

• Tolerate textures and sounds better

• Build stronger motor coordination and confidence

Read how a sensory-friendly classroom supports focus and comfort.

Real-Life Changes You Can See

Parents who enroll their children in OT at OrbRom often notice:

• Better behavior in public places

• Willingness to try new foods and textures

• Longer attention span at school or therapy

• Improved participation in daily routines

• More self-regulation and fewer emotional outbursts

These outcomes are not just clinical—they’re real changes in the child’s everyday life.

A Sensory-Friendly Space in Phnom Penh

OrbRom Center offers a safe, calming, and playful environment designed to meet the sensory needs of each child. Our therapy rooms include:

• Swings, crash mats, and balance tools

• Texture stations and calming lights

• Quiet corners with fidget items and visual timers

We also work closely with families to create sensory diets and home-based tools that support daily routines.

Explore how occupational therapy and speech therapy can work together.

Get Started with Support That Makes a Difference

Sensory challenges can be confusing—but with the right guidance and therapy, children can learn to regulate their bodies and enjoy the world around them. If your child is sensitive to sound, touch, or movement, occupational therapy could be life-changing.

OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh is ready to support your child with personalized, sensory-based therapy from experienced professionals.

Click here to learn more about our occupational therapy services.