Sensory Processing – or Sensory Integration as it is also known – is the effective registration (and accurate interpretation) of sensory input in the environment (including one’s body). It is the way the brain receives, organises and responds to sensory input in order to behave in a meaningful and consistent manner.
Children who experience a difficulty in processing sensory information may have what is known as Sensory Processing Disorder.
If a child has difficulties with Sensory Processing, (s)he might:
Have poor attention
Bump into things and people
Demonstrate inappropriate behaviour (like tantrums)
Have poor body control
Be overly active or lacking speed of activity
Have difficulties in learning and retaining learned skills
Be unable to comfortably manage crowds or group settings
Have immature social skills
Suffer from anxiety
If you suspect your child has difficulties with his/her sensations/ sensory processing, then one of our experienced occupational therapists can help. Contact us for more advice or support.
Some of our favourite activities to develop improving sensory processing are:
Physical obstacle courses
Animal walks
Trampolining
Visual schedules and timers
Finger painting, playing with shaving cream
Rough and tumble play / squishing or sandwiching with pillows or ballsUse of regulation tools e.g. stress ball or weighted items Chewy toys
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