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What is Sensory Integration Therapy for Autism?

 

Sensory Integration Therapy is an intervention that is customized to help children who have sensory processing disorders. It is intended to assist them in processing sensory stimuli in terms of touch, sound, and motion among others in a more efficient manner. This type of activity can be highly effective for children with autism who struggle with these types of sensory inputs.

Sensory Integration Disorder or Sensory Processing Disorder is common in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This state, they say, complicates the way they perceive sensory input from their surroundings. For example, they may be hyper-sensitive to how some fabrics feel, certain sounds, too loud or not even perceive them or, they may have some problem with motions that other people perform fluidly like climbing the stairs.

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How Does Sensory Integration Therapy Work?

 

Sensory Integration Therapy operates by organizing particular activities that teach children suffering from sensory processing disorders to react to sensory input in an appropriate manner. This therapy is based upon the idea that the correct sensory providence can develop the brain and the way that the brain perceives the sensory information. It is usually provided by an Occupational Therapist who has achieved specialty qualifications in sensory integration theory and techniques.

During a usual session, the therapist can employ a range of therapeutic activities that are aimed to provide the child with some sensory input in an organized, controlled manner. Such may involve swings, spins, balance exercises, tactile play with different textures, or listening to various sounds. The trick is to run these activities as enjoyable games that stimulate the child to take part. With time, by being exposed to the stimuli repeatedly and through rehearsal, a child can develop an efficient method of processing sensory inputs, thus, reducing symptoms of sensory overload and enabling the child to connect better to his environment.

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Role of Sensory Integration Therapy in Early Intervention

 

Early intervention in the Management of ASD is very important and Sensory Integration Therapy (SIT) has been identified as a useful approach for enhancing the overall functioning and development of young children.

🎯 Improves Sensory Modulation

Sensory Integration Therapy (SIT) is beneficial to children with autism because it helps them to develop their ability to process sensory stimuli accurately. This results in improved behavior and attention span as the child is no longer overpowered by the stimuli.

🎯 Enhances Social Interactions

SIT helps children to manage sensory over responsibility and thereby it could enhance their social skills. They become at ease in social situations where they tend to develop better interactions with people of their age and adults.

🎯 Boosts Academic Skills

On the bright side, children with autism tend to improve their ability to process sensory input, and, therefore, they find it easier to concentrate at school. This can be followed by the student enjoying good grades.

🎯 Promotes Personal Development

In addition to sensory processing, SIT also enhances the development of motor skills, coordination, and balance. A child needs these skills for development as well.

🎯 Provides Structured Learning

Occupational therapists use activities that are repetitive and structured, so children are exposed to various sensory stimuli. Such a systematic technique will allow the children to get used to various sensory experiences.

🎯 Reduces Anxiety and Distress

Too much sensory input can be overwhelming for children with autism. SIT will be able to teach them how to control this overload so as to lessen anxiety in the children and make them more comfortable with their environment.

🎯 Fosters Independence

As children learn to better process sensory information, they may become more confident and independent. They can participate more fully in daily activities, from dressing themselves to participating in group Activities at School.

🎯 Supports Early Intervention Goals

SIT fits the goals of Early Intervention for Children with Autism. It provides a child-focused, Play-Based Approach to counseling that can reinforce other components of early intervention, like Speech Therapy or behavior therapy.

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