We process information from our senses throughout the day. Whether it's the noise and visual intensity of our subway journey to work, or the taste and smell of the food we eat. We are aware of our 5 senses such as sight, smell, touch, sound, taste, but did you know that there are 2 additional senses?
Proprioception (body awareness)
In our joints and in our muscles there are receptors that tell our brain where our limbs are located in space.
Vestibular (movement)
Vestibular receptors in the inner ear provide the brain with information about the movement of the body.
Most children readily process sensory input from the world around them to produce normal behavioral responses. When this information is not processed or 'integrated' correctly, a child's ability to perform daily activities can be affected.
How do I know if my child has a Sensory Processing Disorder?
A child If people have difficulty processing sensory information from the world around them, their behavior may be affected in many ways. They are less likely to reach their full academic potential, find social interactions difficult, and find family activities such as swimming, vacations or going to the movies distracting. Here are some descriptions of the ways Sensory Processing Disorder can manifest in your child:
Tactual difficulties (touch)
These can be aversion to sticky or dirty hands, shoes or socks It can be manifested as not wanting to wear it, finding clothes itchy, being interested in touching certain surfaces and fabrics, not liking having their hair washed or combed, or disliking textured foods.
Proprioceptive difficulties (where they are in space)
p>This can manifest through a child looking for heavy items to tuck under, such as heavy clothing or coats. They may appear fidgety in the classroom and may move constantly.
Vestibular difficulties (movement)
They may avoid movements such as turning, swinging, or they may have a fear of heights or vice versa. they may desire these sensations and engage in these activities at every opportunity.
With auditory difficulty r (hearing)
This includes hypersensitivity to loud noises, for example in the playground or swimming pool. Children who are less sensitive to the auditory senses may seem to lack attention to the world around them, meaning they may not notice when their name is called.
A specialist can help determine how a child processes and responds to sensory information. Once the challenge areas are identified, strategies and techniques are applied to address them. The aim of occupational therapy is to encourage responses appropriate to the senses in an active, meaningful and fun way.
During occupational therapy sessions, the therapist guides the child through structured activities on an ongoing basis.
Treatment of sensory integration disorders per week It is not a one-time treatment, on the contrary, to be truly effective, it needs to be a 24/7 approach that includes school, home and therapy sessions. We will work with you at home to explain your child's sensory difficulties and teach techniques and strategies for working through them. This is sometimes called a 'sensory diet'. We will also give advice to teachers who interact with your child regularly.
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