| what.is.sensory integration? |
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| Sensory experiences include touch, movement, body position,vision,smell,taste, sound and the pull of gravity. The process of the brain organising and interpreting this information is called sensory integration. Sensory integration provides a crucial foundation for later, more complex learning and behaviour. |
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| For most children sensory integration develops in the course of ordinary childhood activities. But for some children, sensory integration does not develop as efficiently as it should. This is known as sensory processing disorder [SPD] or dysfunction in sensory integration [D.S.I.]. When the process is disordered a number of problems in learning, motor skills and behaviour may be evident. |
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| The concept and theory of sensory integration comes from a body of work developed by Dr A. Jean Ayres, PhD, OTR, an occupational therapist who was based in California, U.S.A. As an occupational therapist, Dr. Ayres was interested in the way in which sensory processing and motor planning disorders interfere with activities of daily living and learning. This theory has been developed and refined by the research of Dr. Ayres, as well as other professionals. In addition, literature from the fields of neuropsychology, neurology, physiology, child development, psychology and the conducting of basic and applied research studies have contributed to the development of theory and intervention strategies. |
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| Some signs of SPD/DSI: |
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- Physical clumsiness
- Difficulty learning new movements
- Activity level unusually high or low
- Poor body awareness
- Inappropriate response to touch, movements, sights or sounds
- Poor self esteem
- Social and/or emotional difficulties
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| In addition there may be: |
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- Distractibility, impulsivity, limited attention control.
- Delays in speech, language and/or motor skills.
- Specific learning difficulties and/or perceptual difficulties
- Poor self care skills.
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| An important step in promoting sensory integration in children is to recognise that it exists and that it plays a vital role in their development. |
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| Research has identified the main diagnostic groups linked with SPD/DSI: |
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- Pervasive Developmental Disorder (including Autism and Aspergers Syndrome)
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (A.D.H.D./A.D.D,)
- Learning Disorders ( i.e. specific learning difficulties e.g. dyslexia)
- Developmental Disabilities
- Fragile X Syndrome
- Developmental Coordination Disorder [DCD] (including Dyspraxia)
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| what.can.be done? |
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| If a child is suspected of having SPD/DSI, an assessment can be carried out by a relevantly qualified occupational therapist, physiotherapist or speech and language therapist who has taken post-graduate training in sensory integration. Assessments usually consist of both standardized testing and structured observation of posture, balance and coordination as well as responses to their sensory environment. After carefully analysing test results and assessment data from other professionals and parents, the therapist will make recommendations regarding appropriate therapy and will provide a profile of the child's sensory processing abilities and whether or not your child has a SPD/D.S.I. |
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| One important aspect of therapy that uses a sensory integration approach is that the motivation of the child plays a crucial role in the selection of the activities. Most children tend to seek out activities that provide sensory experiences which will be beneficial to them at that point in their development. It is this active involvement and exploration that enables the child to become a more mature, efficient organizer of sensory information. |
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| Specific skills training is not usually the focus of this therapy approach. When using a sensory integration model, the aim of therapy is to address the underlying conditions, rather than teaching a specific task. |
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