Understanding Sensory Integration Therapy for Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Sensory integration therapy is a specialized form of occupational therapy that helps children with sensory processing issues. It is crucial for occupational therapists to have a deep understanding of this therapy, as many children with disabilities struggle with sensory processing. In this article, we will explore the basics of sensory integration therapy and how it can benefit children in occupational therapy.

What is Sensory Integration Therapy?

Sensory integration therapy is a form of occupational therapy that focuses on helping children develop their sensory processing skills. Sensory processing refers to the ability to receive, interpret, and respond to sensory information from the environment. Children with sensory processing issues may have difficulty with one or more of the senses, including touch, taste, smell, sight, sound, and movement.

The Purpose of Sensory Integration Therapy

The aim of sensory integration therapy is to help children develop the skills necessary to process sensory information and respond appropriately. This type of therapy is often used for children with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, developmental delays, and other conditions that affect sensory processing. By helping children develop these skills, occupational therapists can improve their ability to engage in everyday activities, such as playing, learning, and socializing.

What It Looks Like

Sensory integration therapy is a holistic approach that involves a range of activities designed to stimulate the senses. These activities can include playing with sensory toys, doing yoga or other movement-based exercises, engaging in tactile activities such as painting or playing with sand, and using weighted or pressure-based tools to provide sensory input. The goal is to help children develop their sensory processing skills through these activities and to gradually increase their ability to tolerate sensory input.

Our Occupational Therapists Work Closely with the Child and Family

In sensory integration therapy, the occupational therapist works closely with the child and their family to create a personalized treatment plan. The therapist will assess the child’s sensory processing skills and identify areas that need improvement. From there, the therapist will develop a range of activities designed to stimulate the senses and help the child develop their skills over time. This process can take weeks or even months, depending on the child’s needs and progress.

Overall, sensory integration therapy is a valuable tool in pediatric occupational therapy. By helping children develop their sensory processing skills, occupational therapists can improve their ability to engage in everyday activities and improve their quality of life. We encourage occupational therapists to deepen their knowledge and understanding of sensory integration therapy, as it is an essential skill in providing exceptional care to our young patients.