Sensory Integration Therapy for Children with Autism
Blake (not his real name) often felt overwhelmed by external stimuli. At ten years old, he hated the bright fluorescent lights in his classroom at school and was very particular about the texture of his food. His parents weren’t surprised, as Blake had been diagnosed with autism a few years earlier. But they did want to help him manage these difficulties. They found a solution in sensory integration therapy for children with autism.
Blake’s experiences weren’t unusual. Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) also experience sensory processing disorders. This means their brain processes sensory information (sounds, smells, textures, and so forth) differently. It generally manifests in two ways:
- Hypersensitivity means that the child becomes overstimulated easily. Blake was experiencing this, which is why bright lights and mushy foods bothered him so much.
- Hyposensitivity means that the child doesn’t have enough sensory stimulation. For example, a child with hyposensitivity might be mesmerized by the flickering fluorescent lights that Blake hated so much, to the point that they can’t pay attention in class.
Sensory integration therapy (SIT) is a technique that uses a play-based approach to help children with sensory processing difficulties better manage their symptoms. While it can help any child with sensory issues, it’s particularly helpful for those with autism.
Want to learn more about sensory integration therapy for children with autism? Skills on the Hill is here to help! Keep reading for an overview of the treatment, or request an appointment at our Washington, DC, or Arlington, VA clinic if you have any questions.
How Does Sensory Integration Therapy Work?
Every time you experience sensory input–like smelling a flower, putting on a textured sweater, or taking a bit of ice cream–your brain processes the sensory information from that experience so that you can respond to it. It’s an automatic process, but for people with sensory processing difficulties, the brain doesn’t organize and integrate sensory input as it should.
Sensory integration therapy exposes kids to different sensory stimulation to teach their brains to respond to the input in a more “organized” way. We do this primarily through play-based activities, such as swinging or using a trampoline. The idea is to create a sensory-rich environment so your child can become more comfortable with it, helping to lessen their symptoms.
We also have several techniques to help soothe kids who become overstimulated, such as weighted blankets or vests and brushing, a technique that involves brushing the body with a soft-bristled brush.
Our therapists might also suggest a sensory diet for your child, allowing therapy to continue outside our scheduled sessions. It has nothing to do with food–instead, it’s a tailored program of physical activities that help meet your child’s sensory needs. Examples include bursts of exercise, listening to music on headphones, or playing with Play-Doh.
Schedule an Appointment to Learn More!
Sensory integration therapy for children with autism always begins with a comprehensive assessment to help the Skills on the Hill therapists better understand your child’s unique needs. If you think your child might benefit, request your appointment today!