Sensory integration refers to the way in which the nervous system receives messages from the senses and the body’s response to it. An individual may have a disorder with one or multiple senses, which can be likened to a traffic jam in the brain that prevents information from being processed properly. Sensory integration therapy uses activities to help the child modulate sensory stimulation, develop adaptive responses and feel more comfortable with the world around them. The main goal is to help the child develop self-regulation abilities, tolerate sensory stimuli as well as improve balance, fine motor/gross motor, coordination and eye movement.
Most activities in therapy are fun for children. The child will be guided through activities that challenge their ability to respond appropriately to sensory input by making successful and organized responses. The activities are play-based and designed to gradually increase the demands upon the child. Emphasis is on the child’s interaction with sensory information in the environment with goal directed activities, rather than instructing or drilling the child on how to respond.
SENSORY INTEGRATION THERAPY