10 Things Only Parents of Sensory Seekers Will Understand

If you’re raising a sensory seeker, you already know your house is basically a jungle gym, your kid is a walking science experiment, and public outings are always an adventure.

Sensory seekers are full of energy, curiosity, and wild ideas (that usually involve mess, movement, or noise). They don’t just experience the world - they devour it, touch it, jump on it, spin around in it, and occasionally… lick it.

So here’s a light-hearted list of things only we truly understand. You’re not alone - and yes, we’ve all been there.

1. Your child has licked a shopping trolley

Let’s just start strong, shall we? While other parents are worrying about screen time, you’re over here googling “is trolley metal toxic?” and carrying sanitiser like it’s holy water.

2. Furniture is just indoor playground equipment

Couches? Trampolines. Hallways? Parkour tracks. Kitchen benches? Mount Everest. And you’ve officially given up on keeping your throw pillows on the actual couch.

3. You’ve considered bubble wrap as floor décor

Because nothing soothes your sensory seeker like that glorious popping sound. Bonus points if they walk on it barefoot while wearing a superhero cape.

4. Their idea of “relaxing” is hanging upside down from the couch

While other kids chill with a book or show, your kid is a human bat. You’ve Googled “safe indoor hammocks” at least once this week.

5. People think you over-parent… because your bag is full of chewies and fidgets

“You know they’re not a baby anymore, right?”
Yes, Janet. And your child eats popcorn calmly at the movies. Mine chews through pencil toppers like a beaver with a deadline.

6. They must touch everything

Signs that say “Do Not Touch” may as well say “Touch Me Immediately.” You’ve become a ninja at spotting breakables in a 10-metre radius.

7. You’ve tried explaining proprioception to strangers

“Oh, he’s just craving deep pressure input to regulate his nervous system.”
Blank stare.
“Basically, he likes to be squished like a burrito.”
Ahhh. Got it.

8. You’ve said the phrase “Get off the fridge”

And meant it. Not once. Multiple times.
(Also, bonus points if they’ve ever attempted to climb the shopping centre escalator railing. Again.)

9. Your living room has more therapy balls than chairs

And yes, the mini trampoline is a permanent fixture. Who needs coffee tables when you’ve got crash mats and balance beams?

10. When they finally calm down, you panic

Wait… they’re quiet? Not bouncing off the walls? Not chewing a shoelace? Are they okay?! (Answer: Yes. They’re probably plotting something.)

Final Thoughts From One Sensory Parent to Another

Raising a sensory seeker is a wild ride. It’s loud. It’s messy. It’s beautifully chaotic. But it’s also full of creativity, curiosity, and moments of pure joy.

So here’s to you - the parent googling “vestibular input” at 1am, carrying six types of fidgets in your handbag, and celebrating every day your kid feels just right in their skin.

You’re not alone. You’re doing an amazing job. And your child is exactly who they’re meant to be - vibrant, intense, and absolutely one-of-a-kind!

Want more support and tools for your sensory seeker? Come check out our favourites at Sensory Oasis for Kids - we’ve got your back (and their fidgets).