Their sons, all around the same age, had also been referred for occupational therapy (by different schools) with the suggestion that they might have sensory processing (or integration) disorder (SPD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD). Then within a few months she heard from several other D.C. OT helps children be more comfortable and successful at play and in school.ĭurkin and her husband thought he was just being a 3-year-old boy, and that in some ways - such as seeking the company of adults and enjoying the limelight - he was simply taking after his father, a national TV news correspondent. Occupational therapy (OT) helps adults do better at their job and daily tasks. "They said that he might have sensory processing disorder or something like that," she recalls. The school suggested that Durkin take her son to see an occupational therapist. He was busy and physical, but he didn't want to ride a bike and seemed a bit clumsy. He didn't like group activities, although he did like to play one-on-one with other children. "They said he wasn't sitting in circle time, he wasn't sharing as much as he should, and he liked to be the center of attention," she recalls. Also, play such as tug-of-war or with heavy objects, such as a medicine ball, can help increase a child's awareness of their own body in space and how it relates to other people.Īlthough it has not been widely studied, many therapists have found that sensory integration therapy improves problem behaviors.When Washington, D.C., mom Sara Durkin's son was 3, she got a call one day from his preschool. Therapy might include applying deep touch pressure to a child's skin with the goal of allowing the child to become more used to and process being touched. The therapist then helps the child respond appropriately to this sensory stimulus. It focuses on activities that challenge the child with sensory input. Sensory integration therapy, usually conducted by an occupational or physical therapist, is often recommended for children who have sensory processing disorder. How is sensory processing disorder treated? The OT will observe how your child stands and balances, your child's coordination and eye movements, and how your child responds to stimulation. Your child may also see an occupational therapist (OT). A doctor who has special training to care for children with development and behavior concerns or a mental health professional can check for these conditions. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children who show signs of a sensory problem be checked for other conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder or an anxiety disorder. For instance, your child may play with the same toys in the same manner over and over or prefer only to watch TV or videos. Vacuum cleaners, lawn mowers, hair dryers, leaf blowers, or sirens may be upsetting.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |