A sensory diet or planned schedule of stimulating sensory activities is an appropriate treatment intervention for children on the autism spectrum, including those with sensory processing disorder, autism, Asperger's syndrome or pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified. Sensory diets should be designed to meet your child's specific needs, whether he actively seeks sensory input or avoids it. While sensory play can occur with your occupational therapist, you can also design your own sensory diet at home.
Function
A sensory diet consists of a personalized plan that provides key sensory input. The goal of the sensory diet is to help the child be more focused and organized, reducing disorganized behavior, including hyperactivity, aggression and other challenging behaviors, according to Mindspring.com. Moreover, the child may handle transitions with less stress and improve his tolerance to unwelcome sensory input, reports SensorySmarts.com.
Types
A sensory diet can include a variety of activities depending on your child's needs. Some children require a more active sensory diet, while others benefit from calming activities, and some may need both types of activities. Common additions to a sensory diet include tactile toys such as modeling clay, water play, bouncing on a trampoline, swinging on a swing or being rolled in blankets.
Expert Insight
An occupational therapist, preferably one who knows your child well, is the ideal person to develop a sensory diet for home or school. The daily activities in the sensory plan are a common part of occupational therapy for children with sensory processing difficulties. If you do not have access to an occupational therapist, or your therapist is unwilling to help with a home sensory plan, you may be able to develop your own, suggests Sensory-Processing-Disorder.com.
Considerations
The sensory plan or sensory diet can include planned activities during the day, but may include sensory input through the daily routine, the environment or recreational activities, according to the Indiana Resource Center for Autism. Environmental changes may include a quieter environment, additional visual stimulation, working on a balance ball instead of a chair, or space for rolling and jumping. The daily routine may include time for exercise or movement, carrying heavy objects and quiet rest.
Benefits
Both sensory avoidance and sensory seeking can be difficult behaviors to manage. A sensory-seeking child may slam into walls, chew on clothing or become aggressive. A child who avoids sensory input may become upset about sounds or lights, avoid certain foods or find clothing uncomfortable. Over time, a well-designed sensory plan can help reduce both sensory seeking and avoidance behaviors. You may find that incorporating sensory play helps with development and movement, and improves academic performance, reports the Indiana Resource Center for Autism.
