11/27/2025
Understanding the difference between a tantrum and sensory overload can completely change the way we support our kids. š§ š”
Hereās the brain-based breakdown:
Tantrum ā A behavioral response. It usually stops when the child gets what they want, shows awareness of their audience, and means their logical brain is still online.
Sensory Overload ā A physiological state where the nervous system is truly overwhelmed. It continues regardless of attention, often includes avoiding eye contact, and requires significant recovery time. This isnāt manipulationāitās a nervous system in distress.
š„ Knowing the difference changes how you respondāfast.
š When we meet the need instead of reacting to the behavior, kids thrive.
š± During overload, create calm: reduce stimulation, offer deep pressure input, and give them time to reset.
š Over time, gentle chiropractic adjustments can help the nervous system better process sensory input, reducing overload frequency.
From a brain-based perspective, sensory overload means the stress response has taken over, making self-regulation impossible until the nervous system calms.
š¬ Have you noticed these differences in your child? Share what helps your child during sensory overloadāweād love to build a resource list for other parents."