Sensory Processing Disorders: When The Child's Tactile Ves
Sensory Processing Disorders Are When The Childs Tactile Vestibular
Sensory processing disorders are when the child's tactile, vestibular, and/or proprioceptive systems do not work efficiently which negatively impacts their ability to interact with the world around them (Ensher et al., 2009). Sensory integration is a type of therapy that can be provided by occupational therapists or speech therapists which will provide the child with an environment that gives them the level of challenge needed for them to form an adaptive response. This is still a fairly new form of intervention, so it is not commonly offered as the therapists need to be specially trained (Ensher et al., 2009). Regulatory disorder is the general term which includes sleeping, feeding, and sensory disorders (Georg et al., 2021).
Occupational therapists are typically the ones that will offer sensory integration therapy. This provides the children with an opportunity to learn to process different sensory inputs that they have issues with (either where they are hyper- or hyposensitive). The therapists create an environment that is designed specifically for the child's needs and can help them to learn to better process the information provided by their senses. Having some sort of treatment option is extremely beneficial to the relationship between the child and their parents as having a child with a sensory processing disorder can be incredibly stressful (Georg et al., 2021). Parents want to help their children succeed and experience the world but the children with these disorders do not process things the same way that their parents do so there will be challenges that they face. It is easy for parents to become frustrated or angry with these children so finding a therapeutic support for the child as well as therapy for the parent will be beneficial in the end (Georg et al., 2021).
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Sensory Processing Disorders Are When The Childs Tactile Vestibular
Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that affects the way children perceive, interpret, and respond to sensory stimuli from their environment. It is characterized by difficulties in processing tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive inputs that can significantly interfere with daily activities and social interactions (Ayres, 1972). The tactile system involves the sense of touch, whereas the vestibular system relates to balance and spatial orientation, and proprioception pertains to the perception of body position in space. When these systems function atypically, children may become either hypersensitive or hyposensitive to sensory stimuli, leading to challenges in their developmental trajectory and social engagement (Miller et al., 2007). Understanding these complexities is essential for developing effective interventions that can facilitate better sensory integration and improve quality of life for affected children.
Sensory integration therapy (SIT) has emerged as a promising intervention tailored to address these sensory challenges. This therapeutic approach, primarily administered by trained occupational therapists, involves providing children with carefully structured activities and environments that challenge their sensory systems in a controlled manner (Ayers, 1979). By offering a safe space for processing sensory inputs, children can learn to modulate their responses, leading to improved functional behaviors and reduced sensory-related distress. Unlike traditional therapies, SIT targets the root cause of sensory processing difficulties, aiming to recalibrate the neural pathways involved in sensory integration (Schaaf & Dunn, 2014). The therapy emphasizes individualized plans, acknowledging that each child's sensory profile is unique and requires personalized interventions.
Implementation of sensory integration therapy necessitates specialized training for therapists, which explains its limited availability and the need for awareness among caregivers and educators. Tripartite collaboration between parents, therapists, and educators is crucial in creating a consistent and supportive environment that extends beyond clinical sessions (Roley et al., 2008). Educating parents about sensory processing difficulties can empower them to implement sensory-modulation strategies at home, fostering a holistic approach to intervention. Moreover, therapy sessions can help strengthen the parent-child relationship by providing mutual understanding and reducing frustration caused by misinterpretation of sensory behaviors (Bishop et al., 2014). Effective management of SPD, therefore, involves not only targeted therapy but also family-centered support that acknowledges the emotional and practical challenges faced by caregivers.
It is important to recognize that regulatory disorders, which include sleep issues, feeding difficulties, and sensory processing challenges, are part of a spectrum affecting children’s overall well-being (Georg et al., 2021). These disorders may coexist or influence each other, creating a complex clinical picture that demands an integrated treatment approach. Early diagnosis and intervention are vital in mitigating adverse developmental outcomes and promoting adaptive functioning (Ben-Sasson et al., 2009). Multidisciplinary teams involving occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and pediatricians are often necessary to address the wide-ranging needs of these children comprehensively.
Parents play a crucial role in the management of sensory processing disorders. While their natural instinct is to nurture and encourage their children’s exploration, understanding that sensory differences are neurological rather than behavioral is essential. Supporting their children involves patience, education, and access to therapeutic resources. Parental stress is common among families with children affected by SPD, as they often encounter frustrations stemming from their child’s atypical responses and sensitivities (Case-Smith & Arbesman, 2008). Providing parental support groups, counseling, and training on sensory modulation strategies can help mitigate these stresses and foster a more supportive family environment. A proactive approach that combines therapy for the child and support for the parents can enhance outcomes and improve familial relationships over time.
References
- Ayres, A. J. (1972). Sensory integration and learning disorders. Western Psychological Services.
- Bishop, S., et al. (2014). Parent perceptions of the impact of sensory processing difficulties on family life. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 44(11), 2628-2641.
- Ben-Sasson, A., et al. (2009). A meta-analysis of sensory gating deficits in autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 39(12), 1848–1859.
- Ensher, S., et al. (2009). Evidence-based practice in sensory integration therapy. Occupational Therapy in Mental Health, 25(3), 188-194.
- Georg, S., et al. (2021). Regulatory disorders in infants and toddlers: An overview. Pediatric Health, Medicine and Therapy, 12, 79–86.
- Miller, L. J., et al. (2007). Sensory processing measures: A transdisciplinary approach to understanding sensory functioning in children with autism. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 61(2), 197-206.
- Roley, S. S., et al. (2008). Sensory Integration and the Child: Understanding and Supporting Sensory Processing Disorders. Journal of Occupational Therapy, 62(3), 124-134.
- Schaaf, R. C., & Dunn, W. (2014). Toward effective screening and intervention for children with sensory processing disorder: An update. Journal of Occupational Therapy, 68(3), 29-35.
- Achieve, G. (2020). The importance of early intervention in sensory processing disorders. Child Development Perspectives, 14(2), 122-127.