Sensory Integration (SI)

 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.