Ayres’ Sensory Integration Therapy®

Our bodies make use of sensory input from our surroundings to make sense of our environments and own bodies, plan our actions, organise our behaviour and interact purposefully. These sensory inputs include sight, smell, sound, touch, taste, movement and body awareness stimuli.

For some children sensory integration does not develop as efficiently as it should, presenting as difficulties developing, learning and controlling their impulses and behaviour, typically in either one of or a combination of the below patterns:

Sensory Avoider Withdraws Uncooperative, Defiant Resistant to changes in routines Dislikes loud sounds Dislikes messy play and water Dislikes grooming and certain clothing Avoids shoes and socks Covers eyes to bright light Aversive responses to smells Fussy eating Frequent meltdowns Dislikes climbing and swinging	Sensory Sensitive Tearful, Resistant to changes in routine Dislikes loud sounds, Easily distractible Distress during messy play and water Dislikes grooming and certain clothing Dislikes wearing socks and shoes Covers eyes to bright light Aversive responses to smells Fussy eating Low frustration tolerance Frequent meltdowns Dislikes climbing and swinging Fear of heights
Sensory Seeker Always on the go Rarely sits still, Fidgets Hyperactive, Inattentive Often bites or mouths objects Often smells objects Plays rough and forceful Enjoys falling/crashing Walks on toes	Low Registration Often lethargic, appears tired Appears to not hear what was said Inattentive Day dreamer Well behaved Slow working speed Misses instructions Tires easily

Sensory Integration Therapy utilises the brain’s neuroplasticity at a young age to facilitate more typical responses to sensory input for improved participation and emotional regulation.

See the below article links for more information on Sensory Integration Therapy and Sensory Processing.

Article links:

• http://occupationaltherapychildren.com.au/we-have-skills/what-is-sensory-integration-therapy/
• https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/treatments-approaches/alternative-therapies/sensory-integration-therapy-what-you-need-to-know
• https://www.theotpractice.co.uk/how-we-help/conditions/sensory-processing-disorder

Video links: