One question I hear from parents all the time is: “Why does my child have such a hard time working with others?”

The answer often goes deeper than personality or social skills. Many times, it comes down to how a child processes sensory information. 

🧩 Sensory Processing and Teamwork—The Connection

Sensory processing is how the brain receives and responds to input from the senses—sight, sound, touch, movement, and more. 

For children with sensory processing challenges (including those with autism, ADHD, or anxiety), everyday input can feel too much or not enough—and that directly impacts how they collaborate, share, and play with others. 

🤹‍♀️ Why Sensory Processing Affects Teamwork

Think about what it takes for kids to be part of a group: listening to others, waiting their turn, staying focused, managing big feelings, and rolling with unexpected changes. 

Now picture trying to do all of that while your shirt tag is scratching your neck, the lights feel like they’re glaring into your eyes, or the kid next to you won’t stop tapping their pencil and it sounds so loud. 

For many kids with sensory sensitivities, that’s their reality. Their energy is already spent on handling the sensory world around them—so teamwork can feel extra hard before it even starts. 

It’s a little like being in a long work meeting when the room is freezing, the overhead lights are buzzing, and your coworker is clicking their pen nonstop. You’d probably have a hard time focusing on teamwork too.

For kids with sensory sensitivities, their “sensory cup” may already be overflowing before teamwork even begins. This can lead to meltdowns, shutdowns, or withdrawing from group play. 

On the flip side, children who are under-responsive to sensory input may seem distracted or “in their own world,” missing social cues or appearing unmotivated—when really, they need more input to stay engaged. 

🤝 How Teamwork Builds Sensory Skills

Here’s the encouraging news: it works both ways. 

Group play and teamwork activities can actually help strengthen sensory processing over time. 

Sports, playground games, art projects, or building forts aren’t just fun—they challenge kids to: 

Move and coordinate their bodies 

• Problem-solve 

• Regulate emotions 

• Practice cooperation 

With the right support, teamwork becomes a natural way to grow both sensory and social skills. 

🏡 Parent Tips: Building Teamwork + Sensory Success 

Here are simple strategies you can start using at home: 

👥 1. Start Small with Groups

 Begin with just 2–3 kids (siblings, cousins, or even you joining in). Keeping the group small makes it easier for your child to practice without feeling overwhelmed and slowly build up overtime.

🔄 2. Try a Quick Sensory Warm-Up

Before your child jumps into group play, give their body a chance to get ready. This could be a few minutes of bouncing on a trampoline, swinging, pushing against the wall, or even enjoying a crunchy snack. These little activities can help your child feel calmer and more organized—making playtime go more smoothly.

💬 3. Talk About Feelings & Body Cues

 Show your child how to notice what their body is telling them. You might say, “It feels really noisy in here” or “I need a little break.” When kids see and hear youyou model this, they learn how to recognize their own signals and speak up for what they need.

📅 4. Keep It Predictable

 Routines and visuals go a long way- and who doesn't love a schedule? A simple picture schedule or step-by-step guide can make group time feel less overwhelming and more manageable.

🎭 5. Practice Through Pretend Play

Turn sharing, taking turns, and asking for help into a fun game! Use role play or story time so your child can act out these skills in a playful way. Kids learn best when they’re having fun—and practicing through play makes cooperation feel natural.

💛 Final Thoughts

Every child experiences the world in their own way. If group time feels overwhelming, it’s not about misbehavior—it’s about their sensory system working overtime. You’re not alone in this, and small strategies can make a big difference.

✨ If your child needs extra support, don’t wait—partner with an occupational therapist. With the right strategies, your child can thrive in their body, their friendships, and their world. 

👉 Are you ready to help your child build confidence in both teamwork and sensory skills? 

Contact us today for a consultation. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help your child shine—in play, at school, and beyond.