What is Sensory Integration Therapy?
Sensory integration therapy was developed in the 1970s by an OT, A. Jean Ayres, and is designed to help children with sensory-processing problems (including possibly those with ASDs) cope with the difficulties they have processing sensory input. Therapy sessions are play-oriented and may include using equipment such as swings, trampolines, and slides.
Sensory integration also uses therapies such as deep pressure, brushing, weighted vests, and swinging. These therapies appear to sometimes be able to calm an anxious child. In addition, sensory integration therapy is believed to increase a child’s threshold for tolerating sensory-rich environments, make transitions less disturbing, and reinforce positive behaviors.
Use of Sensory Integration Therapy:
Sensory integration therapy is used to help children learn to use all their senses together – that is, touch, smell, taste, sight, and hearing. It’s claimed that this therapy can improve challenging behavior or repetitive behavior. These behaviors can be related to difficulties with processing sensory information.
Dr. Survi Dash also sometimes suggests that sensory integration therapy can help with other autism characteristics, like difficulties with play and emotional regulation.
Effectiveness of Sensory Integration Therapy:
Although there are scientific studies to show that children with ASDs (Autism Spectrum Disorders) are more likely to have sensory-processing problems, the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy as a therapy for ASDs is limited and inconclusive. While this does not mean that the therapy might not be helpful in some children, effectiveness so far is mainly based on personal experiences.
Talk with a Simple Hearing and Speech Care specialist if you suspect that your child has difficulties with sensory processing; there are resources in the community for further evaluation.
How Simple Hearing and Speech Care Can Help?
Sensory integration therapy starts with an assessment of the child by an occupational therapist in Pune (Dr. Survi Dash). The therapist then plans and conducts a program that includes activities to stimulate sensory responses from the child – in particular, responses to do with balance and physical movement. This might include things like swinging, bouncing, or climbing.
Sensory integration therapy is designed to be part of wider programs that also include communication, behavior, and educational therapies.
If you’re interested in sensory integration therapy, it’s a good idea to talk about it with a Simple Hearing and Speech Care specialist. You can book an online appointment or call us at 7666773596
