The way that sensory integration therapy works is that it sets up specific activities that educate kids with sensory processing problems how to appropriately respond to sensory information. The foundation of this therapy is the notion that proper sensory provision can enhance brain development and the way the brain processes sensory data. Typically, an occupational therapist with specialised training in sensory integration theory and techniques provides it.
In a typical session, the therapist may use a variety of therapeutic exercises designed to give the kid some organised, regulated sensory stimulation. These could include balancing drills, swinging, spinning, playing with different textures with the touch sense, or listening to varied noises. The secret is to present these exercises as entertaining games that entice kids to participate. A youngster can reduce symptoms of sensory overload and improve his ability to connect with his surroundings by developing an effective way of processing sensory inputs over time through repeated exposure to the stimuli and practice.
Methods and strategies used in sensory integration therapy that are commonly used in early intervention for children with ASD. These methods aim to improve a child’s response and perception capacities.
THERAPEUTIC TECHNIQUES
ORAL MOTOR ACTIVITIES
Activities that minimise oral sensitivity and improve oral motor skills include chewing, blowing bubbles, and sipping straws.
SENSORY DIET
Personalised activities make sure that the child gets all the sensory input they require throughout the day. These could include specific movements, tactile assignments, or oral motor exercises.
DEEP PRESSURE ACTIVITIES
These could be employing weighted blankets, donning weight vests, or cramming into small areas. It can help kids feel more grounded and become more aware of their bodies.
VISUAL MOTOR ACTIVITIES
Hand-eye coordination and visual processing skills are developed through such activities. They could consist of exercises like drawing challenges, riddles, and ball games.
TACTILE ACTIVITIES
Playing with sand, water, play-doh, or other texturized materials falls under this category. By doing these activities, you can reduce sensory defensiveness and improve your fine motor abilities.
PROPRIOCEPTIVE ACTIVITIES
These pieces deal with labor-intensive or resistance-based tasks like pushing, tugging, lifting, or transporting objects. They may help improve equilibrium and body awareness.
BALANCE ACTIVITIES
Obstacle courses, trampolines, and balancing boards can help kids become more coordinated and balanced. Proprioception and coordination can also benefit from these kinds of exercises.
BRUSHING PROTOCOL
The Wilbarger Protocol, commonly known as the Brushing Protocol, stipulates that a brush must be used to apply deep-pressure touch stimulation. It helps lessen the perception of bodily senses and touch sensitivity.
THERAPEUTIC LISTENING
As part of this strategy, you can listen to music that has been specially created to enhance auditory processing skills. Additionally, it can improve behavior in general, self-control, and focus.
SWING THERAPY
This technique uses a range of swings to activate the vestibular system, which improves orientation in space and balance. To encourage sensory integration while the kid is in the swing, the therapist may also incorporate other movements and exercises.
