What Is Sensory Integration Therapy?

The term “sensory integration” refers to the processing, integration, and organisation of sensory information from the body and the environment. Simply put, this means how we experience, interpret and react to (or ignore) information coming from our senses. Sensory integration is important in all the things that we need to do daily, such as getting dressed, eating, moving around, socialising, learning and working.

Sensory information is received from our senses, which include:

• Sight (vision)

• Hearing (auditory system)

• Touch (tactile system) Taste (gustatory system)

• Smell (olfactory system)

• Proprioception (senses of body awareness and position)

• Vestibular (awareness of movement, balance, and coordination)

• Interoception (our internal sensory system that tells us what is happening inside our body, for example, hunger, needing the toilet, fatigue, emotions, etc)

Sensory integration therapy is a program usually led by occupational therapists. For example, an occupational therapist might design and implement an individual program of sensory experiences for an autistic child.

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 behaviour or repetitive behaviour. These behaviours can be related to difficulties with processing sensory information. Therapists also sometimes suggest that sensory integration therapy can help with other autism characteristics, like difficulties with play and emotional regulation. Some forms of sensory integration therapy are called Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) intervention. This type of sensory integration therapy tends to focus on goals and is more systematic than other types of sensory integration therapy. Parents may recognize their child’s behaviour is not typical. But most parents may not know why. Don’t be afraid to discuss your child’s behaviour with your doctor. He or she may refer you to an occupational therapist. These professionals can assess your child for SPD. He or she will likely watch your child interact in certain situations. The therapist will ask your child questions. All of these things will help make a diagnosis.

Unique Approach of Jeevaniyam, The Best Autism Treatment Hospital In Kerala

At Jeevaniyam, sensory integration therapy starts with an assessment of the child by our best occupational therapist. 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, behaviour and educational therapies.