What is sensory processing? How do I know if my child has sensory processing disorder? The following definitions are from the Sensory Processing Foundation. At the end of this post, there is a link to a sensory processing disorder checklist, as well as an invitation to join us at our next Adoption Community Group to learn more.
According to the Sensory Processing Foundation, sensory processing (sometimes called "sensory integration" or SI) refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. Whether you are biting into a hamburger, riding a bicycle, or reading a book, your successful completion of the activity requires processing sensation or "sensory integration."
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD, formerly known as "sensory integration dysfunction") is a condition that exists when sensory signals don't get organized into appropriate responses. Pioneering occupational therapist and neuroscientist A. Jean Ayres, PhD, likened SPD to a neurological "traffic jam" that prevents certain parts of the brain from receiving the information needed to interpret sensory information correctly. A person with SPD finds it difficult to process and act upon information received through the senses, which creates challenges in performing countless everyday tasks. Motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, school failure, and other impacts may result if the disorder is not treated effectively.
What does sensory processing disorder look like?
Sensory Processing Disorder can affect people in only one sense–for example, just touch or just sight or just movement–or in multiple senses. One person with SPD may over-respond to sensation and find clothing, physical contact, light, sound, food, or other sensory input to be unbearable. Another might under-respond and show little or no reaction to stimulation, even pain or extreme hot and cold. In children whose sensory processing of messages from the muscles and joints is impaired, posture and motor skills can be affected. These are the "floppy babies" who worry new parents and the kids who get called "klutz" and "spaz" on the playground. Still other children exhibit an appetite for sensation that is in perpetual overdrive. These kids often are misdiagnosed - and inappropriately medicated - for ADHD.
Taken from : http://www.sinetwork.org/
While a professional evaluation is highly recommended, you may wish to review this Sensory Processing Disorder Checklist.
Join us Saturday, March 5, 3:00PM - 5:00PM, at Grace Covenant Church (www.grace360.org), for hands on learning about sensory processing disorder and playful activities you can do with your children to help them feel "in sync." Parents and children will rotate together through various stations, participating in practical and fun sensory rich activities. Being a parent is not required to attend or participate. RSVP to acgaustin@gmail.com with your name, number of people attending and name/age of children who will attend with you.
