What does Sensory Processing mean?
Sensory processing refers to the way the brain receives messages from the body and turns them into appropriate motor and behavior responses. Sensory processing is an unconscious activity of the brain that helps us complete our daily tasks and routines. Sensory Integration is the process of the brain organizing and adjusting touch, sound, visual stimulation, movement, and taste.
When sensory integration is disrupted, a child may suffer from hyperactivity, ADHD, hypersensitivities, overloads and meltdowns, poor attention span, a fear of being touched, anti-social choices, or other issues.
What is a Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is like a “block” between sensory input from the body and interpretation by the brain. The brain does not properly receive messages from the body because of this “block”. Messages may be unorganized, delayed, or stopped. If this happens, the body has difficulty understanding information from sensory input. As a result, the body can have an inappropriate response to the sensory input.
What do you mean by “sensory input?”
Sensory input is everything in our environment that we experience, such as seeing, hearing, tasting, or touching. Our brain tells us what we are experiencing and how to respond.
Reach out to an occupational therapist if your child is experiencing any of the following:
- Difficulty with messy textures, such as glue, play-dough, etc.)
- Dislikes getting dirty
- Have negative reactions when touched
- Dislikes wearing socks/shoes
- Isolates self from other students
- Avoids certain textures of foods
- Bump or push other students
- Have difficulty standing in a straight line
Whatever the cause, the treatment techniques used in Sensory Integration therapy may help bring relief to those who have atypical neurological processing. Our therapists are skilled to work with children and adults who have Sensory Processing Disorders. We make individualized plans that target your loved ones’ specific needs to improve their lives.