173: ADHD & Sensory Processing Explained with Michael Soria

In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay dives into some often overlooked aspects of ADHD—sensory processing challenges. She’s joined by Michael Soria, a global special education consultant and dad of a neurodivergent child, who brings over 35 years of insight and heart to the conversation.

If your child melts down in the cereal aisle or fights over wearing socks, it may not be “just ADHD”—it could be their sensory system crying out for help. Dana and Michael explore how sensory overload can mimic or magnify ADHD symptoms, and what parents and educators can do to support these children more effectively.

Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the three hidden senses (vestibular, proprioception, and interoception), how to distinguish behavior from sensory triggers, and four powerful Cs—Consistency, Calm Transitions, Communication, and Compassion—for building a more supportive home and school environment.

Link Mentioned in the Show:

• Sensory Toys & Products from Playlearn: https://playlearn.com
• Contact Michael: [e-mail]
• Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways:
[04:56] Learn about the three hidden senses often overlooked in ADHD care
[09:05] Sensory red flags at home—like picky eating or trouble finishing meals
[16:25] The power of the 95-point sensory checklist to clarify what’s really going on
[22:05] Michael’s “4 Cs” for supporting children with ADHD and sensory challenges
[29:38] How a custom calming space or a “comfort portfolio” can change behavior in the moment

Memorable Moments:
“What if your child isn’t misbehaving — their sensory system is just overwhelmed?”

“Transitions are where most antecedents become behavior problems.”

“The best activities you can do with your kids are the ones they tell you they like the most.”

“Even if they don’t have sensory challenges, every child benefits from calming tools.”

“Teachers are experts in loving our students, and that’s invaluable.”

“How cool would it be if I’m having a meltdown and I open a little book and see a photo of me and my dog?”

“Knowledge is power—and so is community.”

“If we do this activity at school, parents please also do it at home.”

“We’re not looking at the behavior; we should be looking at what caused the behavior.”

“When your kid screams over socks... it might not be bad behavior.”

How to Connect to Caz:
📧 Email: [e-mail]
💼 LinkedIn: Michael Soria on LinkedIn
🌐 Playlearn: https://playlearn.com

Dana Kay Resources:

🔗WEBSITES:

• https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
• https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

• Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

• Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

• ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
• ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/