Dr. J loves Sensitive Sam, a children’s book by Marla Roth-Fisch that won the 2009 Book of the Year Award from Creative Child Magazine. He will bring it to me and ask me to read it to him. I think he likes it because Sam has SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder), and Dr. J can relate to Sam’s sensitivities.

You see, for Dr. J, Sam, and thousands of other children, their brains receive sensory messages differently than most people. They are either more or less intense. In Sam’s case, most of his senses are hyper-sensitive, meaning he feels and hears things more strongly. Bright lights bother him more. Certain textures in his mouth drive him crazy.

Because of those things, I think Dr. J feels like he found a friend in Sensitive Sam. But Marla doesn’t stop at “I’m like that, too!” She helps children see what can help them–trying new things, often with the help of an occupational therapist.  Sensory-sensitive children will see that if they, like Sam, are willing to try some activities one step at a time, their bodies will feel better.

Parents find hope. Most children, especially those with rigid thinking, will take a suggestion from a children’s book much more easily than from a parent. Parents can use Sensitive Sam to help their SPD kiddos see that life does not have to stay so uncomfortable. They can use Marla’s book as a springboard for many profitable discussions, including calming nerves before an occupational therapy evaluation!

Sensitive Sam exemplifies what can happen when a parent (Marla) of a challenged child takes that challenge head-on. Marla created a book that helps not only her son, but also many children around the world! Remember, if you use the code HATS, you can get 15% off your purchase of Sensitive Sam at Future Horizon’s online store. If you’re in the continental US, you’ll also get free shipping! You can find the book here (affiliate link). Discount does not apply to Temple Grandin conferences since they are already discounted.

If you’d like to read another review about Sensitive Sam for a second opinion, you can read my friend Gina’s thoughts here.

Future Horizons sent me a copy of Sensitive Sam for honest review. All opinions are my own.