2. Our Seven Senses
Movement-based Sensory
:M
Vestibular
po
Skills, body
oto r
sture
nd
es , j o i n t a
eflex
ceptive: r
Proprio
otion
muscle m
3. What is Sensory Disorder?
Formally known as Sensory Integration Dysfunction.
Sensory Processing disorder is when parts of the brain have
trouble receiving and responding to the information needed to
interpret sensory (hearing, seeing, touch, smell, taste, and
movement) information correctly.
The body “feels” the stimuli correctly, but the mind “interprets
“ the stimuli incorrectly
A. Jean Ayres, Occupational Therapist and Neuroscientist
referenced it as a “traffic jam”.
4. Background Information
Sensory Processing Disorder was defined by Anna Jean Ayres in the
1960’s.
Was excluded in the fifth edition of the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical
Manual)in December 2012.
73% - Males
Only published statistic from Dr. Lucy Jane Miller , reported a minimum
of 1 in 20 children have Sensory Processing Disorder.
Commonly associated with other disorders.
5. Theories on the Disruption of Sensory Processing
Prenatal/Birth:
Complications during delivery
Infections or Illnesses from mother
Pre-term
Wrapping of the cord
Childhood:
Chronic Ear Infections
Allergies/Asthma
Serious Injuries/Illnesses
Jaundice
Colic
Abuse
No interaction in the environment
9. Modifications in the Classroom
Offer Choices
Consistency
Use Eye Contact, as well as facial expression
Sensory diet
Walking – Taking strolls with an aide during specific intervals
Brushing – A technique that is taught by their OT to brush themselves
with a deep touch pressure (this is to be done in the bathroom stalls for
joint compressions.)
Listening to Calming music – using the ipod
Fidgeting with objects – Give a child a ball to squeeze.
Special place in line and seating in the classroom.
Monitor the tone and volume of voice
Conscious of body language
The most important one is, as a teacher, you must accommodate based
on how they respond. Each child with a sensory processing disorder is
different.
