Understanding Sensory Processing and Sensory Integration Issues

Sensory processing (sometimes called “sensory integration”) issues occur when the brain has difficulty interpreting and responding to information received from the senses. This can manifest in various ways, such as:

• Over-Sensitivity: Children may intensely experience sounds, lights, touch, or smells that others find unremarkable or otherwise tolerable. Their sensitivity to stimuli may seem to fluctuate as well, making awareness of the issue more difficult.
• Under-Sensitivity: The child may appear to ignore stimuli such as touch or sound, often seeking more intense sensory experiences. The obvious concern here is physical injury, but it can also cause more subtle disruptions.
• Poor Motor Skills: Challenges with balance, coordination, or performing tasks that require fine motor control. We typically move and act in accordance with sensory input, and if sensations are not being processed effectively, those movements can be compromised.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble maintaining focus on tasks or following directions, either because they are distracted by stimuli or unable to process them efficiently.
• Behavioral Challenges: Frequent meltdowns, difficulty transitioning between activities, or avoiding certain environments. Behavioral challenges are often the most obvious sign of sensory processing issues, but they are an effect, rather than a cause, and can be minimized once the crux of the problem is addressed.

These symptoms can be overwhelming and lead to what look like unreasonable or irrational outbursts, but children may simply not have the tools to communicate their discomfort and needs. With the right support and resources, your child can learn to handle these challenges. Our center offers evaluation and tailored therapy plans to meet your child’s unique needs.

Types of Sensory Processing and Integration Challenges

Experts often divide sensory processing issues into two primary categories:

Sensory Modulation Dysfunction

This mostly concerns the brain’s ability to filter and address sensory input. As our bodies various sensory organs bring in information about the world around us, our brains are typically optimized to disregard trivial information so that we can focus on the important, useful bits of sensory data. This allows us to function efficiently in the face of far more data than we actually need. Children and individuals with modulation dysfunction struggle to ignore the irrelevant sensory input and thus feel overwhelmed and incapable of performing whatever task they need or want to perform.

Dyspraxia

Dyspraxia refers to struggles with executing motor functions. Most people are familiar with the five primary senses of sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. But the brain also receives sensory input from our vestibular and proprioceptive systems, which allow us to situate ourselves in space and remain aware of our body and its movements. Children and individuals with dyspraxia may appear clumsy, uncoordinated, and spatially disorganized. At a practical level, tasks that require hand-to-eye coordination like eating with utensils, tying one’s shoes, and even walking in a straight line can be difficult.

Evaluations and Assessments by Certified Professionals

At our center, we take a comprehensive approach to therapy, ensuring that your child receives the best care:

• Tailored Therapy Plans: Every child is different. We design therapy plans that cater to your child’s specific needs and abilities.
• Experienced Therapists: Our team consists of experienced, compassionate professionals specializing in sensory processing and integration.
• Cutting-edge Techniques and Equipment: We use the latest therapy techniques and equipment to maximize positive outcomes.
• Supportive Environment: Our center provides a nurturing and inclusive environment that encourages growth and development.
• Empowering Families: We equip children and their families with skills and strategies for managing daily life.

What Does Sensory Integration Therapy Look Like?

Sensory integration (SI) therapy, also known as SI interventions, involves structured exposure to sensory stimuli through movement therapy, balance exercises, and specially tailored physical activities and accommodations. These accommodations may include modifications to the environment or routine. An SI Practitioner collaborates with the client, as well as their family, caregivers, school, and other health professionals to develop a personalized sensory plan. Said plan consists of recommended activities and accommodations that provide the necessary sensory input for the child. These activities can be performed during therapy sessions and at home or school to support the client’s sensory needs and will likely change to some extent as the child grows and progresses.

Sensory integration therapy is designed to help children process and respond to sensory information effectively. We aim to help by sticking to these tenets:

• Therapeutic Strategies: We use activities that involve physical movement, tactile exploration, and other sensory experiences to help children learn to integrate sensory information.
• Comfort and Control: Our goal is to help children gain comfort and control over their actions, improving their ability to function in daily life.
• Tailored Activities: From a game of hop-scotch to playing with textured materials, we tailor activities to your child’s individual needs.

Take the First Step Towards a Better Future

If your child displays any signs of sensory processing issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our professional evaluations and personalized therapy plans can make a significant difference in your child’s life.

Contact us to schedule an assessment today.