Often children with neurodevelopmental issues have “sensory processing issues”, which may create a perpetual sense of discomfort. These children require what is known as a “Sensory integration therapy”. Some symptoms of abnormal sensory processing are, oversensitivity to clothes, food, certain textures, loud noises, bright light or specific smells. Sensory seeking behavior which consists of bumping into furniture or walls, high pain tolerance to hot and cold or extreme roughhousing and screaming, tantrums, outbursts or meltdowns. Clumsiness, behavioral issues, anxiety, behavioral issues in the classroom and disrupting other students. Poor attention-span, activity level that is unusually high or unusually low. Impulsive, lacking in self-control, inability to unwind or calm self. Poor self-concept, social and/or emotional problems.
The underlying concepts of sensory integration therapy has its basis in neuroscience, developmental psychology, occupational therapy and education. When problems in processing sensory information interfere with the child’s ability to perform or participate in age-appropriate activities of daily life or “occupations,” occupational therapists use Sensory Integration therapy to help to address these concerns. Sensory integration therapy helps in:
SI therapy helps improve the functioning of an individual’s sensory system.
Sensory integration is facilitated by occupational therapists through "just right" opportunities for safe play and learning.
The aim is to improve the ability of the brain to process sensory information so that the child will function more adaptively in their daily activities.
