Olfactory System

Written By Emma Curtis

Next up is the olfactory system — better known as our sense of smell. This system relies on receptors in the nose to help us interpret and respond to different scents in our environment.

Signs Your Child May Have Olfactory Processing Needs

Children can respond to smells in a variety of ways. Here are some behaviors you might notice:


Sensitivity to olfactory input (over-responsive):

  • Covers their nose when exposed to certain scents

  • Becomes very dysregulated when near perfume, cooking smells, garbage, etc.


Seeking more olfactory input (under-responsive/seeking):

  • Smells non-food objects, including toys or even people

  • Is drawn to activities with strong scents such as cooking, bathing, or scented toys


Low registration of olfactory input:

  • Doesn’t notice when something smells “off” (e.g., spoiled food, an accident, overflowing garbage)

  • May not react to strong scents in a space, such as fresh paint or even smoke


Avoidance of olfactory input:

  • Struggles to focus in environments with competing smells (e.g., a classroom near the cafeteria)

  • Becomes distressed in scented environments but won’t remove themselves

It’s important to remember: every child is different. Sensory needs show up in unique ways. Sometimes children naturally find ways to meet their needs, and that’s perfectly okay. Concerns usually arise when a child’s sensory needs interfere with their ability to comfortably participate in everyday life.

Supporting Olfactory Needs at Home

If you suspect your child may have challenges with smell, here are some practical strategies to try:

For children who are over-responsive (sensitive):

  • Use a fan or open windows when cooking to minimize strong odors

  • Give warnings before cooking or using strong-smelling products

  • Reduce artificial scents (e.g., perfumes, air fresheners, candles) when possible

  • Provide a scarf for your child to use in public spaces with strong smells


For children who are under-responsive or seeking:

  • Incorporate safe, pleasant scents into daily routines (e.g., scented lotions, essential oils on a scrunchie, diffusers)

  • Offer activities that include extra scents (scented markers, cooking, playing with shaving cream)

  • Continue teaching healthy boundaries (e.g., is it okay to smell other people, how to recognize which objects are okay to smell)

Supporting your child’s sensory needs can make a huge difference in their comfort, confidence, and participation in daily activities. If you’re noticing that your child’s response to smells is more intense, less noticeable, or interfering with daily life, it may be time to reach out for support.

At EC Occupational Therapy, we’re here to help you better understand your child’s unique sensory profile and find strategies that work best for your family.

Emma Curtis
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Visual System