Sensory processing disorder, also known as sensory integration dysfunction, is a condition in which sensory signals are not organized in the brain appropriately. This prevents certain parts of the brain from receiving the sensory information needed to act. Without treatment, this disorder can cause motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, school difficulties, depression and anxiety. SPD is most often diagnosed in children, according to the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation. However, the disorder can persist into adulthood without treatment. Children with this condition are usually treated with occupational therapy and other sensory interventions.
Step 1
Find a practitioner in your area that specializes in SPD. The Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation provides a searchable database that allows you to locate a specialist.
Step 2
Create a sensory corner for your child. Include soft furnishings with a variety of textures. Place a box in the corner with objects that are made with different material. Encourage your child to reach in the box and touch different objects.
Step 3
Fill a box or bag with sand or dried beans where small objects are hidden. Have your child reach into the bag to find the objects.
Step 4
Use modeling clay to help your child overcome textile sensory difficulties. Encourage your child to create sculptures in the clay.
Step 5
Play with a sand tray to encourage your child to touch various objects. Include water in the sand tray and different toys. Add more textured substances as your child becomes more comfortable playing.
Step 6
Include heavy work activities in your treatment to increase muscle movement. These types of activities include things like weight training, shoveling, raking the yard, carrying groceries or digging in the garden. Trampolines are used so that children can jump and bounce. Climbing on playground equipment is another activity that can be used to treat children with sensory disorders.
Step 7
Construct a play tunnel. Have your child climb through the tunnel. Add variations by including different objects in the tunnel or simulating an earthquake by shaking the tunnel while your child is inside.
Step 8
Use a straw to have your child blow bubbles in soapy water for oral sensitivity. Give your child a recorder, a musical instrument that requires someone to blow into it for the creation of sound.
Things You'll Need
- Toys with different textures
- Sand tray
- Modeling clay
- Straw
- Sand
- Dried beans
- Tunnel
References
- Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation; About SPD; August 2010
- Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation; Treatment Occupational Therapy; August 2011
- OT Mom Learning Activities: Sensory Integration Activities
- Sensory Processing Disorder: Sensory Integration Activities: Treatment That Works Skills That Matter
