Sensory Integration Therapy is to help the
child re-organize or re-process sensory information in order to have a more
accurate response to external stimuli.
Normally our
brain converts the messages sent from various senses into appropriate
responses. This process is called sensory integration (SI). But sometimes due
to some reasons (like traffic jam you can say); these messages are not received
and converted into proper stimulus. That is when the child requires Sensory
integration therapy. In other words, the child finds it difficult to process
the stimuli and act to it accordingly.
For example the
child with touch issue (tactile), might not be process the message that the pot is hot or cold and
react accordingly. Or if a child has issue with smell might not like a
particular smell, or a child might get disturbed with loud noise etc.
A person with such
sensory processing disorder (SPD) finds it difficult to process and act upon
information received through the senses, which creates challenges in performing
countless everyday tasks. Motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety,
depression, school failure, and other impacts may result if the disorder is not
treated effectively.
Like any other
behavioral and/or developmental disorder, causes of SPD might be genetic or
environmental.
Children with SPD often face problems with
their motor skills and other skills required for school accomplishments. Often
they are categorized in ADHD. Since both the symptoms are bit similar, proper
evaluation and observation is required before proceeding forward.
SI therapy is a
part of occupational therapy, where the therapist works on the senses which
helps the child overcome its difficulties. For example, a child with tactile
issue is given various textures so as the child feels and understands various
surfaces. A child who is unable to gauge various surfaces during walking is
made to cross various hurdles with textures so as he/she doesn’t stumble upon
walking.
Children with
SPD can overcome the problems faced due this disorder with regular practice and
therapy.
Very nicely written
ReplyDeleteThanks Mamata :)
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