What is Sensory Integration?
Sensory integration is the process of receiving sensory information from our body and environment, interpreting it, and producing an appropriate behavioral response.
The sensory integration theory describes a neurological process that manages the sensory inputs from our body and environment to enable us to effectively use our body in interaction with our surroundings. The brain uses this process in daily living activities.
In other words, sensory integration is the meaningful and purposeful interpretation of sensory experiences; it involves making sense of sensory input from the body and environment to generate appropriate responses.
For learning to occur, the brain must be developed through meaningful activities to promote sensory-motor development. For sensory-motor development, the individual must engage with their environment. Meaningful sensory-motor activity is important in sensory integration therapy because correct interaction shapes brain development and enables neural plasticity (the nervous system’s ability to change).
What Are the Principles of Sensory Integration Therapy?
According to sensory integration theory, learning is a brain function, and learning difficulties indicate deviations in nervous system function. Individuals with learning difficulties often experience motor and sensory problems; they have trouble perceiving and integrating sensory information. The inability to integrate sensory stimuli causes behavioral and learning problems. This condition is called “Sensory Integration Disorder.”
The sensory integration approach differs from other learning difficulty interventions by not focusing on standard skill training. Instead, it aims to enhance the brain’s ability to understand, perceive, and plan motor actions.
Who Experiences Sensory Integration Disorder?
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Children with learning disabilities
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Cerebral Palsy
- Developmental delays (fine motor, gross motor, visual-motor disorders, coordination problems)
- Hearing, speech, and language disorders
- Developmental delays due to premature birth
- Genetic and chromosomal disorders
Common Sensory Integration Disorders Include:
- Slow response
- Reduced attention span
- Difficulty speaking with appropriate tone and speed
- Constant fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating in noisy environments, covering ears
- Focusing on wrong sounds and missing targets
- Memory difficulties
- Lack of response to sound, difficulty localizing sound direction
- Food selectivity, smelling food before eating
- Avoidance of brushing teeth, cutting hair or nails
- Fear of falling
- Walking on tiptoes
- Clumsiness
- Constant desire to move
How Are Sensory Integration Disorders Treated?
Before therapy, sensory integration problems are evaluated by considering sensory systems, sensory processing difficulties, and their impact on daily living activities.
At the beginning of therapy, it is crucial that the child’s intrinsic motivation is balanced, they actively participate, and can tolerate stimuli. Active participation always facilitates learning. The child can adapt what they learn during communication and play into daily life activities more easily.
Sensory stimuli are always planned using sensory strategies tailored to the child’s individual needs, and an appropriate sensory diet is chosen. Just as every child is different, their sensory characteristics vary, so intervention plans are also individualized.
To ensure effective continuation of therapy at home, families are educated, and home, school, and play environments are adapted according to the child’s sensory needs.