Sensory Processing
What is sensory processing?
Sensory integration in the “organization of senses for use” (Jean Ayres, pioneer of sensory integration therapy). It is the ability to take in information, organize it, and use it in a meaningful way.
When does a child need sensory processing support?
Sensory dysfunction is like a “traffic jam” of sensory information in the brain. A child would benefit from support when this is impacting their activity to participate in every day tasks. Some examples might be:
Avoiding situations due to too much stimuli (i.e. loud, bright, crowded) such as school or birthday parties
Tactile sensitivities causing mealtime battles or a refusal to get dressed
Difficulties staying still and controlling one’s body
Poor attention and emotional regulation
How does OT support sensory processing?
There are different types of sensory interventions that OT provide which may include:
Ayres sensory integration (ASI) which involves structured, child-led, repetitive and sensory rich activities designed to change the nervous system
Exploring sensory strategies to accommodate the existing nervous system such as seamless socks, wearing headphones, or creating a “sensory diet” (i.e. movement activities scheduled into the day for a movement seeker)
Multi-sensory activities to help regulate the nervous system
Sensory integration therapy often includes equipment such as: swings, exercise balls, trampolines, weighted equipment and more.