Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how the brain interprets sensory information from the environment. It can result in hypersensitivity (overreaction) or hyposensitivity (underreaction) to sensory stimuli like sound, touch, or light. Children with SPD often struggle with daily activities and interactions due to sensory challenges. Understanding these difficulties is the first step. Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals manage these challenges and lead more comfortable lives.
How occupational therapy helps with SPD
Occupational therapy is key to addressing SPD by helping individuals process sensory input more effectively. Therapists assess each child’s sensory profile and create personalized strategies and a plan for the therapy sessions.
This could involve activities to improve motor coordination, sensory exercises, or tools to manage overwhelming stimuli. An occupational therapist focuses on making everyday life easier, and promoting independence.
Common challenges faced by SPD children
Children with SPD may face:
- Overreaction to noises, lights, or textures.
- Difficulty coordinating movements or motor skills.
These challenges can interfere with social interaction and learning. Occupational therapy addresses these issues through structured activities, helping children develop a few coping tools.
Techniques used in occupational therapy for SPD children
Therapists use various techniques, including:
- Sensory integration therapy: Activities that help the brain process sensory input better.
- Sensory activities: Customized routines with activities that regulate sensory responses.
- Motor skill exercises: To improve coordination and strength.
Each technique is unique to the child’s needs, ensuring they feel an improvement during and after therapy in their normal lives.
Benefits
Occupational therapy offers several benefits, such as:
- Better sensory regulation, reducing overstimulation or underreaction.
- Improved motor skills, helping in tasks like writing or dressing.
- Improved emotional and social skills, promoting confidence.
These improvements lead to a higher quality of life for children and their families. Therapy also fosters independence.
How do parents play a role
Parents are crucial for occupational therapy. By working closely with therapists, they can:
- Reinforce therapy activities at home.
- Create sensory-friendly environments.
- Offer emotional support.
- Encourage the child to keep going.
Their involvement ensures consistent progress and helps children feel supported.
When to seek occupational therapy for children with SPD?
Signs that it may be time to consult a therapist include:
- Extreme sensitivity to textures, lights, or sounds.
- Difficulty with motor tasks like buttoning shirts or holding pens and pencils.
- Avoiding social interactions due to sensory challenges.
Seeking early intervention can make a significant difference in managing SPD effectively and can also help the child manage SPD more efficiently and quickly.
Pune has become a hub for specialized occupational therapy services, by combining expertise with personal care. The city has highly qualified therapists and centers that cater to children with SPD. If you’re searching for an experienced occupational therapist in Pune, you’ll find professionals who focus on holistic and child-friendly approaches and techniques. Pune’s reputation for advanced therapy options makes it a top choice for families seeking quality care.
Occupational therapy transforms lives. For example, a child struggling with sensitivity to textures and sounds can learn to manage these issues through consistent therapy. Gradually, they become more comfortable in school, improve their motor skills, and develop a greater sense of confidence in social settings. Such examples highlight the impact of occupational therapy in children with SPD to overcome challenges.
Preparing for your child’s first therapy session
To prepare for your child’s first session, you should:
- Discuss concerns and observations with the therapist.
- Dress your child in comfortable clothes.
- Bring any reports or evaluations from school teachers or psychologists for reference.
- Prepare your child by explaining what to expect, positively.
A supportive and calm start will help your child feel more at ease and help to build trust with the therapist.
References:
- https://familydoctor.org/condition/sensory-processing-disorder-spd/#:~:text=Sensory%20processing%20disorder%20(SPD)%20is,that%20other%20people%20are%20not.
- https://www.understood.org/en/articles/understanding-sensory-processing-challenges
- https://sensoryhealth.org/basic/understanding-sensory-integration-process
- https://www.brighterstridesaba.com/blog/what-is-sensory-processing-disorder-icd-10-code
- https://research.aota.org/ajot/article/77/Supplement%203/7713410230/25035/Sensory-Integration-Approaches-for-Children-and
- https://childmind.org/article/sensory-processing-issues-explained/#:~:text=Quick%20Read,motor%20skills%20like%20fastening%20buttons.
- https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/sensory-seeking-activities?srsltid=AfmBOoo2SmkLRA0p5ovtCObxz16Rc-3KG935hfV1jang4es0L1k2J5Jt
- https://theinspiredtreehouse.com/simplest-calming-sensory-trick-deep-pressure/
