Occupational Therapy for Sensory Processing Challenges: What Parents Need to Know
01-11-2024
Children with sensory processing difficulties may be unable to engage in their daily activities of play, learning and socialisation. Sensory Processing is how the nervous system takes in, understands and responds to sensory information. This is normal for some kids, however, for others, they might become over or under sensitive to a sensory input and this can be the problem with sound, texture, light or movement.
How Occupational Therapy Helps
The role of occupational therapy (OT) in helping a child with sensory processing difficulties (SPD) is a very important one. At the best OT clinics, skilled therapists employ evidence-based techniques to aid children in understanding sensory information better. The occupational pediatric therapist’s role is to assess and plan individualized treatment for each child, depending on the child’s needs and problems. Plans include practical activities and specific skills which promote sensory integration skills.
Key Strategies Used in Occupational Therapy
Children play sensory activities in OT sessions to regulate the sensory response – for sensory processing difficulties.:
- Sensory Integration Activities: Therapists use activities such as swinging, climbing, sand or slime play. These exercises will help children to gradually familiarise themselves with different inputs.
- Calming and Alerting Techniques: OTs will provide practical techniques for calming a child, such as Deep Pressure Massage or some breathing exercises, depending on the needs of the child. These tricks will assist the child to respond to his or her senses in a more effective manner and help the child focus.
- Routine Modifications: OT may also assist with families to create ‘sensory friendly’ routines. For instance, meal times can be made more structured, there may be quiet spaces at home, or other changes to activities may help to minimize overstimulation.
How Parents Can Support Their Child
The parent is an important partner of his/her child’s education. Being aware of signs of sensory sensitivity and sensory avoidant behaviours such as avoiding certain textures, or enjoying certain textures can aid in making early interventions. Parents can help support the child’s growth and comfort by attending therapy sessions and implementing OT at home.
Long-Term Benefits of Occupational Therapy
Children make progress in sensory processing skills and make improvements in concentration and/or better motor skills; increased engagement in school and social activities with regular OT. This can positively impact the child’s self-esteem and development. For the best occupational therapy clinic in Dubai, you will find a clinic like MyChamps Speech Clinic that has an occupational therapist who will provide you with a comprehensive service that will help your child to bloom.
