The Sixth Sense - Understanding the Eight Senses and Their Impact on Daily Activities

Proprioception allows us to perform routine tasks without needing to consciously monitor our every move. This "sixth sense" helps us coordinate our muscles and limbs to move smoothly and accurately. However, when proprioception is impaired, it can lead to noticeable difficulties in motor skills and coordination, often diagnosed as dyspraxia or developmental coordination disorder. 

 

What happens: A child might struggle to coordinate the movements necessary to use a fork and knife effectively, leading to messy eating or difficulty in cutting food. 

Why it matters: This can often lead to misunderstandings or frustration at meal times, with the child being scolded for not eating 'properly.' 

 

What happens: Poor proprioception affects a child’s ability to regulate the pressure and movement of a pencil or pen, resulting in unclear or messy handwriting. 

Why it matters: This often results in the child facing criticism for their handwriting, affecting their confidence and performance in school. 

 

What happens: The child may not be able to accurately judge the position of the broom relative to the floor, leading to ineffective sweeping movements. 

Why it matters: Inadequate cleaning can be a source of frustration for both the child and adults, who may perceive it as carelessness or lack of effort. 

 

What happens: When ascending stairs, impaired proprioception can cause a child to misjudge the necessary force or distance required to step from one stair to the next, leading to heavy or uncoordinated steps. 

Why it matters: This not only poses a risk of falling but can also be seen as disruptive, especially in quiet settings like schools or libraries, leading to potential scolding. 

 

Children with proprioceptive difficulties often face challenges in coordinated activities such as playing sports, where catching a ball can be problematic, dancing, where they may struggle with complex footwork, riding a bicycle, which requires continuous balance adjustments, and playing musical instruments, where precise finger placement is crucial. 

 

Recognising the difficulties associated with proprioception is key to providing the right support. These challenges are not the result of carelessness or lack of effort but are indicative of sensory processing issues. By understanding and addressing these sensory needs, parents, teachers, and caregivers can implement strategies that enhance learning, improve motor skills, and build self-esteem, rather than contributing to feelings of inadequacy. 

 

Educating society about all eight senses, including proprioception, can lead to a more inclusive environment where children with sensory processing challenges receive the support they need to thrive. Awareness and appropriate responses can significantly alter the developmental trajectory for these children, promoting a more understanding and supportive community.