Sensory integration is the process by which the brain organizes information from the senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste, movement and balance) so that a person can respond appropriately to the world around them. For children with autism, this process is often impaired, which can cause difficulties in everyday life. For example, a child may be hypersensitive to sounds, making the noise in the supermarket unbearable for him. Or, conversely, he may not notice pain when he falls and scratches himself. Sensory integration helps to overcome these difficulties.
Corrective Sensory Therapy
Sensory integration for children with races has two practical developmental trends:
- Polysensory education of children with autism through the development of visual, auditory and tactile skills.
- Creating special conditions in the environment familiar to the child that will facilitate perception and enable productive interaction.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) indicates abnormalities in the central nervous system and brain. The child is unable to connect his or her senses and adequately perceive objects. There are several reasons for this, one of the main ones is the improper development of sensory systems. The baby has difficulty orienting in space and has low vestibular activity.
The main goal of therapeutic correction is to increase the communication of the child, setting him to a lively perception of the world around him. With the help of an occupational therapist, children learn to feel their own body and their actions, to react correctly to impulses and to handle objects.
The universal method of sensory integration solves several tasks at the same time and is effectively applied in many areas such as:
- ABA therapy;
- neurology;
- defectology;
- speech therapy;
- pedagogy;
- neurophysiology;
- medical rehabilitation.
Sensory integration of children in clinics
The following classes are available for children with autism:
- bioacoustic correction – hardware and software correction based on sensory stimulation of brain structures with sounds and sound complexes formed on the basis of real-time electroencephalography of the child;
- sensorimotor correction and integration – neurocorrection of spatial orientation, interhemispheric interaction, work with analyzers: auditory, visual, tactile;
- kinesiotherapy and kinesioyoga – sensory integration based on movement exercises, sensation of self in space and improvement of the respiratory system;
- sensory body massage – health-improving sensory massage with balls, contrasting materials;
- sensory speech massage – massage to expand the food menu of a child with autism;
- ART therapy – classes to improve the perception system using music, vocal and fairy tale therapy;
- dolphin therapy – classes with dolphins in a dolphinarium with the participation of psychologists;
- hippotherapy – lessons with horses under the supervision of a professional instructor.
Key methods of sensory integration in the home
One of the main methods of sensory integration is working with sensory stimuli. This helps the child to adapt to different influences and improve their perception of the world around them. Let’s take a look at a few methods:
- Working with loud sounds
If your child is afraid of loud noises, you can gradually introduce them to your child. Start with soft sounds, such as rustling leaves, and gradually increase the volume, watching how your child reacts. It is important to do this in a safe and comfortable environment so that he or she feels secure.
- Use of sensory toys and equipment
Sensory toys and specialized equipment can greatly help a child improve coordination and body awareness. Here are some examples:
- Sensory balls – help develop tactile senses and coordination.
- Balance boards – help improve balance and motor skills.
- Weighted blankets – create a “cuddle” feeling, which calms the child when he or she feels anxious or overstimulated.
Every child has different preferences, so it’s important to experiment to find the right equipment.
- Sensory diet
A sensory diet is not food related, but is a set of activities that help maintain a child’s optimal level of arousal throughout the day. Depending on the child’s condition, the following methods can be used:
- If your child is overly energetic, offer to jump on a trampoline or swing on a swing to “blow off steam”.
- If the child is lethargic or distracted, suggest a task that requires concentration, such as putting together a puzzle or drawing.
- Gradual adaptation to sensory influences
Sensory integration is not a one-time procedure, but a long-term process. Regular practice and patience will help your child adapt. For example, if your child is afraid of touching the skin, start with light massage through clothing, gradually moving to direct contact. This will help the child get used to the sensations and reduce anxiety.
- Using everyday situations to practice sensory integration
Parents can use everyday situations to practice a child’s sensory skills. For example, while preparing food, you can invite your child to touch different textures:
- Smooth apples
- Rough carrots
- Sticky dough
This develops tactile senses and makes routine activities fun.
Every child with autism is unique and their responses to sensory stimuli can vary considerably. Therefore, it is important to develop individualized approaches that are tailored to each child’s perceptual characteristics. This means that methods and approaches that work for one child may not be effective for another.
The role of play in sensory integration
Play is an important tool in sensory integration because it allows the child to actively interact with the world around them through different sensory channels. For example, playing with sand, water, playing with different textures or building games can develop tactile and motor skills. Water play activities, for example, can be beneficial for relaxation and improving coordination.
A child with autism can quickly tire of sensory stimulation, so it’s important to take regular breaks to avoid overloading their nervous system. The right balance between activity and rest helps your child stay in the best condition to learn new skills.
Monitoring progress and adapting methods
During the sensory integration process, it is important to regularly monitor the child’s progress and adjust methods and approaches if necessary. The use of observation diaries, questionnaires and consultation with therapists can help to identify which methods are most effective.
Conclusion
Sensory integration plays a crucial role in the development of children with autism by helping them process and respond to sensory stimuli more effectively. As children with autism often experience challenges in integrating sensory information, targeted sensory interventions can significantly improve their ability to navigate the world and interact with others. Whether through structured therapies, sensory toys, or everyday activities, these methods provide children with the tools they need to manage sensory input and enhance their overall development.
It is important to remember that every child is unique, and a personalized approach to sensory integration is essential for success. Collaboration with professionals, such as occupational therapists and speech therapists, combined with the active involvement of parents, can create a supportive and effective environment for sensory growth. By monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments, children can gradually develop a stronger connection to their environment, improve their communication skills, and experience a greater sense of comfort and confidence in their daily lives.
