Sensory Integration Case Study

* Weakness: The limited size of the sample. A larger sample size would add credibility to the study.

Occupational therapists help children make of sensory experiences involving sights, smells, touch, sounds, tastes and movement. Children with learning disabilities or autism may experience serious difficulties processing, understanding and reacting to sensory stimulation. The ability of these children to process sensory information may impacted by either hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to stimulation. Many children who engage in problematic behaviors or anti-social tendencies may actually be experiencing difficulties processing and understanding sensory information and their environment. Occupational therapists use observation and data collection to create a plan that addresses and rectify specific behaviors.

Throughout her extinguished career, Ayres’ number one priority remained her patients. A majority of her work included one on one, sessions with her patients, so she could evaluate their needs closer, and to build a relationship with her clients (Spdfoundation1, 2010). Her first occupational therapy career began when she treated children out of her home, which was a trailer, at the time (Spdfoundation1, 2010). Later on, Smith, Mailoux, Miller- Kuhaneck & Glennon described her first clinic setting stating, “Ayres Clinic, established in 1977 served children with autism or learning disabilities, and by conducting continuing education courses regionally, nationally, and internationally to educate others about sensory integration” (2009).

A. Jean Ayres. Ayres’ was an occupational therapist that was responsible for the foundation and practice of sensory integration theory (W&S). Sensory integration theory is used to explain behavior, plan intervention, and predict how behavior will change through intervention (Roley et al., 2007). Ayres’ focus was on the organization of the central nervous system and how it was involved in the process of children using sensory information. Ayres’ theory of sensory integration describes how the neurological process relates to the recognition and organization of sensation from the body and environment (Devlin et al., 2010). This disorganization can lead to problems with learning, development, and behavior and also has a negative impact on occupational performance. In relation to the topic of Wilbargers’ DPPT, the focus of the articles collected was related to theoretical research on one particular sensory modulation problem defined by Ayres: tactile defensiveness. Tactile defensiveness is exhibited through the negative influence of touch avoidance symptoms (Moore & Henry, 2002). The aim of the Wilbargers’ DPPT is to utilize the connection between the client’s tactile sensation through the skin and nervous system to improve and normalize the sensation of

Alternative Therapeutic Mode: Collaboration would have been another therapeutic mode that would have benefited the patient. Overall, though, it felt as though the therapist was using a mix of collaborative and a problem solving use of self. The best example of this was when he came to the conclusion with the help of the therapist that a new desk would be beneficial to protecting his back. It was also present when the patient determined that physical therapy was not realistic for him, but the other suggestions

Animal-assisted interventions can also be integrated into existing models of treatment for ASD by using animals for components that traditionally target sensory and affective arousal (Berry et al., 2013). The Denver Model is a therapy technique used by occupational therapists that integrates applied behavioral analysis with treatments to target developmental and relationship deficits, which also includes interventions to treat sensory issues. They suggest that therapy dogs are suitable for integration in this model because they provide a multisensory stimulus that incorporates an emotional bond and a sensory experience. The authors also recognize that because of the variances in symptoms of children diagnosed with ASD, highly individualized treatment programs must be created to accommodate multiple levels of sensory sensitivity. More research is needed to determine how children with different levels of sensory sensitivity respond to different animal therapies, potentially though using a comparative study. Perhaps children who are hypersensitive would respond better to an intervention with a dog, rather than a horse. Overall, available research indicates that therapy dogs are also a potential method for providing sensory experiences for children with

Sensory therapy uses everyday objects to arouse one or more of the five-senses (hearing, smell, taste, and touch) in order to evoke positive outcomes of feelings (Gilbert, 2001). The use of sensory stimulation can improve an

Sensory integration is a condition that can be found in young children. This condition is defined as the difficulty of developing motor and cognitive skills at a typical rate(book). If the parent of a child with this condition is fully aware, most likely they will take the steps they need to better their child’s life. With that being said, the child will need an occupational therapist. The researcher has gathered information on the steps and guidelines of what an occupational therapist needs to follow for early intervention, the benefits it has for the child in need, and also the roles of an occupational therapist that will be further discussed. One of the most important role that an occupational therapist can do for a child with sensory integration is early intervention. The earlier you acknowledge the condition, the better outcome the child has at improving his/her physical and mental capabilities. Early intervention helps these children strive towards a path that improves their abilities and skills that are developed during these crucial years.

Sensory impairments usually result in the other senses becoming stringer. Although it could delay the child’s development if it isn’t diagnosed early, the earlier it is diagnose the earlier the child can be supported and be taught relevant things in a way that suits them.

How does sensory processing disorder affect learning? Sensory input plays an important role in learning. The effect of and impact of sensory processing difficulties are not fully understood or researched. Play helps children learn cooperation skills, appropriate social skills, conflict resolution, and about friendships. However, research has shown the correlation between sensory processing, play, and learning is unclear and inconsistent. (Watts, Stagnitti, & Brown, 2014). This is the second reason for the controversy surrounding sensory processing disorder. There is no clear cut or valid proof that sensory processing difficulties effect learning. Parents of children with sensory processing difficulties will disagree. There children struggle every day with things that typical developing children can perform without any difficulty or thought. Treatment for sensory processing disorder is limited and extremely expensive for parents. Treatment for sensory processing disorder involves a “sensory diet” which is an individual plan designed to help the individual function. (Delaney, 2008). Typical

As a recent graduate of the Family and Child Sciences program at Florida State University, I am committed to advancing my career opportunities on a graduate level of study in occupational therapy. I accomplished my initial goal of becoming a certified preschooler teacher and acquired a further understanding of the pediatric realm of occupational therapy based on my educational experiences. At this point in my life I have realized that the graduate program of occupational therapy is my path forward to becoming a professional pediatric occupational therapist. I believe occupational therapy is one of the most innovative and effective approaches in health care delivery in the medical field. I am fascinated by the thought of helping future patients deal with ailments and diseases with a primary care level. Occupational therapy, as a discipline is

I have a strong academic background with studies in a variety of subjects, such as sciences, the arts, and my B.A. in Intercultural Studies. Over the years I have worked and volunteered with preschoolers, youth groups, the elderly, people of different ethnic backgrounds, and people with disabilities. I've worked hard to get here and with OT, it seems that my skills, experiences, and interests are coming together in a unique way. Going to school and getting the formal education needed to become a licensed therapist is the next step in achieving my goals. I am ready for the challenges of classroom and clinical training, and excited about going in depth with this study. I am eager to work on specialized skills that will help me better understand and assist people. I am looking forward to being part of a recognized profession with specific standards and practices. In the future, I hope to collaborate with clients, other specialists, family and community members, and to promote the profession. I'm enthusiastic about OT not just because I think it's a great career and a good fit for me, but also because it addresses major needs in our society. Everyone deserves the chance to participate in their desired activities and live their desired lifestyles. There is a growing demand for occupational therapy services, and I aspire to help in meeting that

According to The American Occupational Therapy Association (2016), occupational therapy could help the child develop better coping skills and provide guidance to family members on how to help the child. More so, this therapy will aid in the evaluation of the child’s home, school and performance skills to make recommendations and provide resources to help the patient (AOTA, 2016). This type of therapy is good for children with delayed development, copying strategies as well as coping skills. This therapy may be beneficial in improving his fine motor skills and age appropriate

The contribution of three research papers push forwards my hypothesis that occupational therapy has the power to grant indispensable rehabilitation for adolescents with an autistic disorder. For instance, seventeen children in one study as its experiment group received manualized OT/SI (occupational therapy using sensory integration) intervention adhering to the principles of sensory integration around, “sensory motor factors affecting the child’s functional behaviors and individually-tailored sensory motor activities were developed to address….[these components in adaptive ways in order the] intervention is contextualized in play with active involvement of the child and conducted in a large gym equipped…[with chances for] active, guided, sensory

Four year olds are still very much learning through the use of their senses (Blaustein, 2005). As well, some children may have special needs concerning sensory processing and integration (Ayers, 1994). Children with sensory processing disorders range from over-responsive, under-responsive, to sensory craving (Ayers, 1994). Nonetheless, every person encounters a plethora of sensory stimuli each day and must take in information and integrate it with prior knowledge to make meaningful responses (Ayers, 1994). Multisensory centers provide young children with and without special needs with the opportunity to seek out sensory stimulation, acquire sensory integration and motor skills, learn coping skills, and understand basic scientific concepts (Blaustein, 2005).