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Sensory integration – what is it?

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What is sensory integration?

Sensory integration is the brain's ability to process information from different senses and make sense of it. In short, sensory integration is the process by which we perceive and interpret what we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. It is important for children because it helps them develop the skills needed to appropriately respond to their environment. For example, if a child hears something unexpected—like a loud bang—they might startle or move away from the sound source. If they catch movement out of the corner of their eye, they might turn towards it to investigate further. If a child lacks good sensory integration skills, they may struggle with such reactions in new situations. They might feel overwhelmed by too much information or be unable to differentiate between important and unimportant information in their surroundings. We've all heard of sensory processing disorders, but what are they? And how can you help your children who have them? If someone has sensory processing issues, they may struggle with interpreting that information—they might feel overwhelmed by noise or light, for example. They might also struggle to control their movements or emotions. This could mean that when you ask them for help with a task, they don't respond because they're too distracted by other things happening around them. You can support your child's sensory integration by helping them understand what's happening in their body and brain when something overwhelms them (like loud noises), so they can learn to better control their feelings. It can affect how they move their bodies, process information from their environment, receive input from their senses, and interact with others. Discover our games and sensory toys. [_components_0_contentHtml] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_contentHtml [components_0_options_two_columns] => 0 [_components_0_options_two_columns] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options_two_columns [components_0_options] => [_components_0_options] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options [components_1_image] => 57266 [_components_1_image] => field_post_fields_components_BlockImage_image [components_2_textAlignment] => textLeft [_components_2_textAlignment] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_textAlignment [components_2_contentHtml] =>

The most common signs of sensory integration problems include:

  • Difficulty transitioning between activities or tasks
  • A need for repetition and routine
  • Difficulty with movement (e.g., clumsiness)
  • Poor coordination
  • Fear of certain textures, sounds, smells, or tastes (e.g., wind phobia).
We all have different senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. How we use these senses is called sensory integration. When people talk about sensory integration, they're usually referring to how well the brain can process information from our senses. But what does that mean? It means that when you see a dog on the street, your brain knows it's a dog, not something else like a cat or a car. It also means that when you hear a loud noise in your environment, your brain can determine whether it's something dangerous (like an explosion). Your brain has to gather all kinds of sensory information so you can understand what's happening around you. That's why people who struggle with sensory integration often have trouble understanding their environment and focusing on tasks like schoolwork.

How to diagnose sensory integrations disorders?

If your child shows signs of sensory integration issues, you should consult a developmental pediatrician or occupational therapist who specializes in working with children with these disorders. They will conduct an assessment to determine if there is indeed a problem and then develop an intervention plan based on what they find during this assessment process. When diagnosing a child with sensory integration disorders, doctors will look for signs of dysfunction in one or more of the following areas: the vestibular system (balance), the proprioceptive system (muscle awareness), the tactile system (touch), and the visual system (sight). For example, if your child struggles with walking because they can't maintain balance properly, it could be a sign of vestibular system dysfunction. If your child can't sense where their body is in space, it could be a sign of proprioceptive dysfunction. If your child constantly bumps into objects because they can't sense when they're getting too close, it could be a sign of tactile dysfunction. And if your child refuses to look at anything because it's just too bright or too loud (visual system dysfunction), then the best way to diagnose the disorder is by seeing a specialist. A child with sensory integration disorders may struggle with processing sensory data and may have difficulty organizing and filtering it. In summary, symptoms of sensory integration disorders include:
  • Difficulty handling touch, sounds, sights, and smells
  • Difficulty organizing thoughts and movements
  • Difficulty maintaining balance and coordination.

The role of sensory integration therapist in the therapeutic process

The specialist will ask about the child's developmental history and how the family interacts with each other. They will also observe how the child moves, speaks, and plays. This information can help determine if the child has sensory integration disorders. There are many ways to help them cope with the symptoms! Try playing games where the child has to focus on one thing at a time (like hide-and-seek). You can also try using weighted blankets or vests—they help children feel grounded when they're in an environment that seems overwhelming or overly stimulating. [_components_2_contentHtml] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_contentHtml [components_2_options_two_columns] => 0 [_components_2_options_two_columns] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options_two_columns [components_2_options] => [_components_2_options] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options [components_3_image] => 56977 [_components_3_image] => field_post_fields_components_BlockImage_image [components_4_textAlignment] => textLeft [_components_4_textAlignment] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_textAlignment [components_4_contentHtml] =>

Sensory integration therapy as an effective method to improve children's concentration

Sensory integration therapy is an effective method for improving children's concentration. The therapy involves stimulating different senses through various stimuli. Diagnosis of hypersensitivity or sensory modulation disorders can be made by a sensory integration therapist. The process of sensory integration involves the smooth processing of environmental stimuli by the nervous system. Exercises for motor integration and sensory stimulation help modulate sensory stimuli. Attention concentration problems may be related to a lack of proprioception or smell. The Polish Association of Sensory Integration Therapists promotes sensory therapy and supports therapists working with children. Sensory integration theory emphasizes the importance of integrating stimuli in the learning and development process of children. Sensory integration disorders can have a significant impact on child development. Early diagnosis and therapy can help children learn to cope with symptoms and improve functioning in everyday life. If you have any questions or concerns about sensory integration in your child, contact a pediatrician or specialist. [_components_4_contentHtml] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_contentHtml [components_4_options_two_columns] => 0 [_components_4_options_two_columns] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options_two_columns [components_4_options] => [_components_4_options] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options [_yoast_wpseo_metadesc] => Discover the secrets of sensory integration in this fascinating article! Learn how our senses collaborate, influencing our daily experiences and personal development. ) [_content:protected] => [_permalink:protected] => [_next:protected] => Array ( ) [_prev:protected] => Array ( ) [_css_class:protected] => [post_author] => 1 [post_content] => [flyntTheContent id="0"] [post_date] => 2024-05-15 18:34:44 [post_excerpt] => [post_parent] => 0 [post_status] => publish [post_title] => Sensory integration - what is it? [post_type] => post [slug] => sensory-integration-what-is-it [__type:protected] => [inline_featured_image] => 0 [_wpml_word_count] => {"total":0,"to_translate":{"en":3,"en-gb":3,"de":3,"pl":3,"es":3}} [_edit_lock] => 1719512523:175 [_edit_last] => 175 [_pys_head_footer] => Array ( [disable_global] => [head_any] => [head_desktop] => [head_mobile] => [footer_any] => [footer_desktop] => [footer_mobile] => ) [cmplz_hide_cookiebanner] => [_wpml_media_duplicate] => 1 [_wpml_media_featured] => 1 [_last_translation_edit_mode] => native-editor [_yoast_wpseo_estimated-reading-time-minutes] => [_pys_super_pack_remove_pixel] => Select Pixel [_pys_super_pack_remove_ga_pixel] => Select Pixel [_pys_super_pack_remove_ads_pixel] => Select Pixel [main_picture] => 57364 [_main_picture] => field_post_fields_main_picture [main_picture_focus] => 38.7182%,69.1790% [_main_picture_focus] => field_post_fields_main_picture_focus [custom_author] => [_custom_author] => field_post_fields_custom_author [author_desc] => [_author_desc] => field_post_fields_author_desc [components] => Array ( [0] => blockWysiwyg [1] => BlockImage [2] => blockWysiwyg [3] => BlockImage [4] => blockWysiwyg ) [_components] => field_post_fields_components [components_0_textAlignment] => textLeft [_components_0_textAlignment] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_textAlignment [components_0_contentHtml] =>

What is sensory integration?

Sensory integration is the brain's ability to process information from different senses and make sense of it. In short, sensory integration is the process by which we perceive and interpret what we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. It is important for children because it helps them develop the skills needed to appropriately respond to their environment. For example, if a child hears something unexpected—like a loud bang—they might startle or move away from the sound source. If they catch movement out of the corner of their eye, they might turn towards it to investigate further. If a child lacks good sensory integration skills, they may struggle with such reactions in new situations. They might feel overwhelmed by too much information or be unable to differentiate between important and unimportant information in their surroundings. We've all heard of sensory processing disorders, but what are they? And how can you help your children who have them? If someone has sensory processing issues, they may struggle with interpreting that information—they might feel overwhelmed by noise or light, for example. They might also struggle to control their movements or emotions. This could mean that when you ask them for help with a task, they don't respond because they're too distracted by other things happening around them. You can support your child's sensory integration by helping them understand what's happening in their body and brain when something overwhelms them (like loud noises), so they can learn to better control their feelings. It can affect how they move their bodies, process information from their environment, receive input from their senses, and interact with others. Discover our games and sensory toys. [_components_0_contentHtml] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_contentHtml [components_0_options_two_columns] => 0 [_components_0_options_two_columns] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options_two_columns [components_0_options] => [_components_0_options] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options [components_1_image] => 57266 [_components_1_image] => field_post_fields_components_BlockImage_image [components_2_textAlignment] => textLeft [_components_2_textAlignment] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_textAlignment [components_2_contentHtml] =>

The most common signs of sensory integration problems include:

  • Difficulty transitioning between activities or tasks
  • A need for repetition and routine
  • Difficulty with movement (e.g., clumsiness)
  • Poor coordination
  • Fear of certain textures, sounds, smells, or tastes (e.g., wind phobia).
We all have different senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. How we use these senses is called sensory integration. When people talk about sensory integration, they're usually referring to how well the brain can process information from our senses. But what does that mean? It means that when you see a dog on the street, your brain knows it's a dog, not something else like a cat or a car. It also means that when you hear a loud noise in your environment, your brain can determine whether it's something dangerous (like an explosion). Your brain has to gather all kinds of sensory information so you can understand what's happening around you. That's why people who struggle with sensory integration often have trouble understanding their environment and focusing on tasks like schoolwork.

How to diagnose sensory integrations disorders?

If your child shows signs of sensory integration issues, you should consult a developmental pediatrician or occupational therapist who specializes in working with children with these disorders. They will conduct an assessment to determine if there is indeed a problem and then develop an intervention plan based on what they find during this assessment process. When diagnosing a child with sensory integration disorders, doctors will look for signs of dysfunction in one or more of the following areas: the vestibular system (balance), the proprioceptive system (muscle awareness), the tactile system (touch), and the visual system (sight). For example, if your child struggles with walking because they can't maintain balance properly, it could be a sign of vestibular system dysfunction. If your child can't sense where their body is in space, it could be a sign of proprioceptive dysfunction. If your child constantly bumps into objects because they can't sense when they're getting too close, it could be a sign of tactile dysfunction. And if your child refuses to look at anything because it's just too bright or too loud (visual system dysfunction), then the best way to diagnose the disorder is by seeing a specialist. A child with sensory integration disorders may struggle with processing sensory data and may have difficulty organizing and filtering it. In summary, symptoms of sensory integration disorders include:
  • Difficulty handling touch, sounds, sights, and smells
  • Difficulty organizing thoughts and movements
  • Difficulty maintaining balance and coordination.

The role of sensory integration therapist in the therapeutic process

The specialist will ask about the child's developmental history and how the family interacts with each other. They will also observe how the child moves, speaks, and plays. This information can help determine if the child has sensory integration disorders. There are many ways to help them cope with the symptoms! Try playing games where the child has to focus on one thing at a time (like hide-and-seek). You can also try using weighted blankets or vests—they help children feel grounded when they're in an environment that seems overwhelming or overly stimulating. [_components_2_contentHtml] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_contentHtml [components_2_options_two_columns] => 0 [_components_2_options_two_columns] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options_two_columns [components_2_options] => [_components_2_options] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options [components_3_image] => 56977 [_components_3_image] => field_post_fields_components_BlockImage_image [components_4_textAlignment] => textLeft [_components_4_textAlignment] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_textAlignment [components_4_contentHtml] =>

Sensory integration therapy as an effective method to improve children's concentration

Sensory integration therapy is an effective method for improving children's concentration. The therapy involves stimulating different senses through various stimuli. Diagnosis of hypersensitivity or sensory modulation disorders can be made by a sensory integration therapist. The process of sensory integration involves the smooth processing of environmental stimuli by the nervous system. Exercises for motor integration and sensory stimulation help modulate sensory stimuli. Attention concentration problems may be related to a lack of proprioception or smell. The Polish Association of Sensory Integration Therapists promotes sensory therapy and supports therapists working with children. Sensory integration theory emphasizes the importance of integrating stimuli in the learning and development process of children. Sensory integration disorders can have a significant impact on child development. Early diagnosis and therapy can help children learn to cope with symptoms and improve functioning in everyday life. If you have any questions or concerns about sensory integration in your child, contact a pediatrician or specialist. [_components_4_contentHtml] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_contentHtml [components_4_options_two_columns] => 0 [_components_4_options_two_columns] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options_two_columns [components_4_options] => [_components_4_options] => field_post_fields_components_blockWysiwyg_options [_yoast_wpseo_metadesc] => Discover the secrets of sensory integration in this fascinating article! Learn how our senses collaborate, influencing our daily experiences and personal development. [post_date_gmt] => 2024-05-15 16:34:44 [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => sensory-integration-what-is-it [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2024-06-27 20:21:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2024-06-27 18:21:43 [post_content_filtered] => [guid] => https://imadeyou.com/?p=131653 [menu_order] => 0 [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw [status] => publish ) or Array ( [0] => )

What is sensory integration?

Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to process information from different senses and make sense of it. In short, sensory integration is the process by which we perceive and interpret what we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. It is important for children because it helps them develop the skills needed to appropriately respond to their environment. For example, if a child hears something unexpected—like a loud bang—they might startle or move away from the sound source. If they catch movement out of the corner of their eye, they might turn towards it to investigate further.

If a child lacks good sensory integration skills, they may struggle with such reactions in new situations. They might feel overwhelmed by too much information or be unable to differentiate between important and unimportant information in their surroundings. We’ve all heard of sensory processing disorders, but what are they? And how can you help your children who have them? If someone has sensory processing issues, they may struggle with interpreting that information—they might feel overwhelmed by noise or light, for example. They might also struggle to control their movements or emotions. This could mean that when you ask them for help with a task, they don’t respond because they’re too distracted by other things happening around them.

You can support your child’s sensory integration by helping them understand what’s happening in their body and brain when something overwhelms them (like loud noises), so they can learn to better control their feelings. It can affect how they move their bodies, process information from their environment, receive input from their senses, and interact with others.

Discover our games and sensory toys.

The most common signs of sensory integration problems include:

  • Difficulty transitioning between activities or tasks
  • A need for repetition and routine
  • Difficulty with movement (e.g., clumsiness)
  • Poor coordination
  • Fear of certain textures, sounds, smells, or tastes (e.g., wind phobia).

We all have different senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. How we use these senses is called sensory integration.

When people talk about sensory integration, they’re usually referring to how well the brain can process information from our senses. But what does that mean? It means that when you see a dog on the street, your brain knows it’s a dog, not something else like a cat or a car. It also means that when you hear a loud noise in your environment, your brain can determine whether it’s something dangerous (like an explosion). Your brain has to gather all kinds of sensory information so you can understand what’s happening around you. That’s why people who struggle with sensory integration often have trouble understanding their environment and focusing on tasks like schoolwork.

How to diagnose sensory integrations disorders?

If your child shows signs of sensory integration issues, you should consult a developmental pediatrician or occupational therapist who specializes in working with children with these disorders. They will conduct an assessment to determine if there is indeed a problem and then develop an intervention plan based on what they find during this assessment process. When diagnosing a child with sensory integration disorders, doctors will look for signs of dysfunction in one or more of the following areas: the vestibular system (balance), the proprioceptive system (muscle awareness), the tactile system (touch), and the visual system (sight).

For example, if your child struggles with walking because they can’t maintain balance properly, it could be a sign of vestibular system dysfunction. If your child can’t sense where their body is in space, it could be a sign of proprioceptive dysfunction. If your child constantly bumps into objects because they can’t sense when they’re getting too close, it could be a sign of tactile dysfunction. And if your child refuses to look at anything because it’s just too bright or too loud (visual system dysfunction), then the best way to diagnose the disorder is by seeing a specialist. A child with sensory integration disorders may struggle with processing sensory data and may have difficulty organizing and filtering it.

In summary, symptoms of sensory integration disorders include:

  • Difficulty handling touch, sounds, sights, and smells
  • Difficulty organizing thoughts and movements
  • Difficulty maintaining balance and coordination.

The role of sensory integration therapist in the therapeutic process

The specialist will ask about the child’s developmental history and how the family interacts with each other. They will also observe how the child moves, speaks, and plays. This information can help determine if the child has sensory integration disorders.
There are many ways to help them cope with the symptoms! Try playing games where the child has to focus on one thing at a time (like hide-and-seek). You can also try using weighted blankets or vests—they help children feel grounded when they’re in an environment that seems overwhelming or overly stimulating.

Sensory integration therapy as an effective method to improve children’s concentration

Sensory integration therapy is an effective method for improving children’s concentration. The therapy involves stimulating different senses through various stimuli. Diagnosis of hypersensitivity or sensory modulation disorders can be made by a sensory integration therapist. The process of sensory integration involves the smooth processing of environmental stimuli by the nervous system. Exercises for motor integration and sensory stimulation help modulate sensory stimuli. Attention concentration problems may be related to a lack of proprioception or smell. The Polish Association of Sensory Integration Therapists promotes sensory therapy and supports therapists working with children. Sensory integration theory emphasizes the importance of integrating stimuli in the learning and development process of children.

Sensory integration disorders can have a significant impact on child development. Early diagnosis and therapy can help children learn to cope with symptoms and improve functioning in everyday life.

If you have any questions or concerns about sensory integration in your child, contact a pediatrician or specialist.