Saturday, February 28, 2009

Sensory Integration


Today in occupational performance for pediatrics we talked about the Sensory Integration Theory of OT intervention: Basically, we all take in sensory input (sight, sound, touch,...). Some people are under-responsive and others are over-responsive to the sensory stimuli received. Those that are under-responsive seek stimuli. For example jumping, putting everything in your mouth, eating spicy or crunchy foods. Those that are over-responsive avoid stimuli. For ex. cover ears, prefer bland foods, avoid clay or finger paints.

The way we help as OTs is to provide sensory stimuli and help the child integrate it appropriately. This leads to an adaptive response (functional behavior vs. hiding in a closet when there are bright lights or pushing a kid who brushes up against you in line.)

Our lab was a lot of fun. We got to play on/with a ton of sensory integration "toys". Click here to see an album of fun pix.

6 comments:

CtrlAltJack said...

Is this an example of a sensory seeker?

Tamara Robertson Turner said...

Yes, your Domo nom nom, does look like a sensory seeker. Another possibility is that he is very hungry.

Jocelyn Robertson said...

Looks like fun! Makes me want to go to the park for some swinging fun.

Joanne said...

You look like you are having a lot of fun! I like the rollers (like the old fashion wringer washing machines) - I wonder if it evenly distributes body fat? That would look odd.

Andrea said...

I want to go play on swings :)

Janet said...

I have always loved those ball pits even as a grown up. When I worked at Hardee's restaurant, which had one for the kids, I went on a date once where we sat in the ball pit and watched a movie.

Looks like a fun class.