Sensory integration develops as a result of ordinary activities as long as there are no major problems. Motor planning is a natural outcome of the process, as is the ability to respond to incoming sensations in an adaptive manner. For some children, sensory integration does not develop as efficiently as it should and the process is disordered - this causes a number of problems in development or behaviour. For example, early crawling has an effect on motor and sensory motor skill development during early childhood and is linked to developmental changes of eye-hand co-ordination, tactile input and social maturation. It initiates the basis for visual-spatial awareness and is essential for the eyes to practice focusing at a reading distance as well as later activities such as running or cross lateral activities. It also plays some part in linking the two hemispheres of the brain.
Signs and symptoms of sensory integration problems
Coordination problems, difficulty with PE and ball skills or clumsiness. May have problems tracking with the eyes. May be very good at English and struggle with maths or vice versa.
Assessment for sensory integration problems
Simple movement exercise such as marching on the spot and simple reflex testing.
Treatment for Sensory Integration problems
Kinesiology sessions and bilateral integration exercises.
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