Vine Academy
125 South Vine
Hinsdale, IL 60521

Is it over excitability or sensory processing disorder? This question comes up often when addressing the needs of gifted children who demonstrate problems with over-responsivity to their surroundings or who crave movement and sensory input. We will explore what SPD is, how it is assessed, what treatment looks like, how it compares to OE and when to seek help for your child. Understanding sensory processing means better understanding of gifted children and how to best support them for success when they experience the world "sensationally."


Debra Johnson, MS, OTR/L is an occupational therapist with over 25 years of experience in a wide variety of settings and special interests in the area of pediatrics, neuro-rehabilitation and the gifted population. She has advanced training in sensory processing assessment and treatment, being SIPT (Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests) certified and Level 1 Mentorship trained at the STAR Center & SPD Foundation under Lucy Miller, PhD, OTR.  Debra currently works in private practice at STEPS for Kids, Inc in Yorkville, IL where she focuses her expertise on serving children with SPD and related conditions. She is the mom of a sensationally gifted child and has a passion for working with the gifted community through advocacy, treatment and support. 

Come join the discussion. Register today!  Registration is free for CGCC members, a non-refundable $5 for non-members. (Fee waivers are available.) Won't you consider helping us build a community of gifted families by joining CGCC today?  Join