Sensory Approach to Home
So we’ve talked about sensory processing in previous posts; But we wanted to add some tips for different situations parents may be experiencing!
This is applicable to:
Autism Spectrum Disorders
SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder)
ADHD, Down Syndrome
Cerebral Palsy
Developmental Delays
Motor Delays
Gifted and kids who are Twice Exceptional
Anxiety
Typical children
Just as an overview, kids should typically get a thorough evaluation, and/or neurology consult before being diagnosed. Many children who are SPD and are sensory seekers/cravers, or those with poor postural control may look like they have ADD/ADHD. The issue at times doesn’t stem from the attention. A lot of the times we think these kids are acting out, not listening, or not paying attention. We notice when they get sent to principal's office, trouble with virtual learning, or get labeled the “behavior kid.” But looking deeper into the underlying issue with the help of healthcare professionals will have a more thorough diagnosis.
In order to help children feel more balanced we can create a Sensory Lifestyle Previously termed a “Sensory Diet,” it’s how you incorporate the sensory tools that you have into every day life. Every child is different, so depending on the child’s sensory processing we advise activities and strategies, but its best to learn through trial and error what works best for the child you are working with.
How does Sleep affect your Child?
Sleep can be very important, keeping consistent bedtime routines, comfortable bedding. You can add some calming music or lights, try to have them sleep in their own bed, tents over the bed can be calming, as well as body pillows.
What about Diet?
You are what you eat. If you have concerns about your child’s limited food repertoire or “picky eating” seek out a therapist who is trained by Dr. Kay Toomey SOS Approach to Feeding. It’s suggested that children need at least 10 sources of protein, 10 fruits or vegetables, 10 other/starches for a total of at least 30 different foods
Dinner time tips:
Family style dinner
Make Eating Fun!
Try different textures, colors, smells
Have something preferred for after the child touches or tastes a new food
Always present a protein source, fruit or vegetable, and starch at every meal/snack, plus one preferred food
Don’t allow your child to “food jag” eat the same foods over and over again
If they have chicken nuggets on Monday, they can’t have them again until Wednesday
OT’s Role:
Among the psychosocial conditions, anxiety disorder is the third prevalent mental disorder affecting children aged 3-17 years (CDC, 2019). OT’s are a great resource for therapy for implementing evidence-based mental health promotion, Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning, Mindfulness, Yoga, etc.
Calming Strategies:
Taking Deep Breaths
Drinking through a straw
Sucking on hard candy
Taking a break
Lowering the lights
Calming music
Warm bath
Talking in soft voice
Slow linear swinging/rocking
Chewing gum
Deep pressure/hugs/weighted vests, blankets
Mindfulness is defined as a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. This is used as a therapeutic technique. This is all about living in the moment and taking every moment just as important as your last.
Want to know more? Email us!
References
Aguilar, Del; Esposito, Phil (2019) “Sensory Processing Disorder and Praxis Skills in Children With Learning Disabilities” The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Vol. 73, No. 4 2. Liotta-Kleinfeld, Lorry; Beros, Lynsey; Boyer, Andrea; Boggus, Taylor; Ruff, Madeleine; Little, Mary; Sollman, Rachael (2020) “Incidence of and Relationship Between Tactile Sensitivity and SelfRegulation in Six- to Eight-Year-Old Children” The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, August 2020, Vol. 74 3.
Lin, Mei-Ling PhD, OTR/L; Nasser, Alyse; Molina, Cayla; Smith, Emma; and Millar, Kristin (2020). “Mental-Health Benefits of a Mindfulness-Based Prevention Program on Elementary Schoolchildren” The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, August 2020, Vol. 74, Supplement 1 4.
Mulligan, Shelley; Schoen, Sarah A.; Miller, Lucy Jane; Valdez, Andrea; and Magalhaes, Deborah (2019) "The Sensory Processing 3-Dimensions Scale: Initial Studies of Reliability and Item Analyses," The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy: Vol. 7: Iss. 1, Article 4. 5.
Orley Templeton, OTD, OTR/L1, Lori Charney, OTD, OTR/L1, Heather Bennett, MS2, Molly Betz, MS3, Kelly Byrne, MS, OTR4, Jame Duffy, MS2 (2019). “The Effect of Sensory-Based Strategies and Social-Skill Training on Social Skills Among Preschool Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder” The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, Vol. 73, No. 4
