"The sense of touch plays a significant role in our understanding of
ourselves and how we respond to the world around us."
The Tactile System

Take a look at the human body and notice how much of it is covered by skin. The sense of touch plays a significant role in our understanding of ourselves and how we respond to the world around us. Dysfunction in the tactile system can lead to problems with writing, grooming, and social interaction.

Clues that may indicate a weakness with tactility include:
 
Extreme ticklishness.
Tendency to touch other people or objects excessively.
Unusual pencil grasp (e.g. with the tip of the thumb off the writing implement).
Dislike of (or reaction to) synthetic fabrics or tags in clothing.
Sensitivity to socks with seams, elastic waistbands, belts, loose threads, etc.
Intolerance of haircuts, hair brushing, face washing, finger nail cutting.
Inability to sleep with a top sheet on the bed, or with a top sheet that is not tucked in military style.
Aversion to being sticky, dirty, sandy, messy etc. OR unaware of being this this way.
Dislike of being physically guided (being taken by the hand or given gentle guidance with a hand on the back).
Avoidance of touch (by hands or mouth) of anything "mushy" or "slimy" or having mixed textures.
Unusual reaction to the application of lotion.
 

First Class Development and Learning Resources

(360) 573-5523
Neurodevelopmental Educational Therapist
Vision Therapist ~ Educator/Tutor
Affiliate of HANDLE® Institute International, LLC
Registered Counselor, WA State

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