The relationship between sensory processing and the time neurotypical school-aged children spend engaging in play: An exploratory study

Sensory processing is the unique way an individual’s brain detects and responds to environmental sensory information and play is a key childhood activity. This study explored the relationship between sensory processing and time children spend playing. Twenty children aged 7-12 years completed the Children’s Perceptions of Their Play scale and parents/caregivers completed the Child Sensory Profile – second edition and Children’s Play Scale. Data was analysed using Spearman’s rho correlations. The SP-2 social emotional subscale was negatively correlated with the Children’s Perceptions of Their Play planned activities subscale. These findings provide
preliminary insights into relationships between children’s sensory processing and play-time.