Sensory Integration: Helping Children Thrive
What Is Sensory Integration?
Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to process and organize information from the senses—touch, sight, sound, taste, smell, body awareness (proprioception), and balance (vestibular system). When this process works effectively, children can focus, engage and participate in everyday activities like learning, playing and socializing. However, some children experience sensory processing difficulties, meaning their brain struggles to interpret sensory input correctly. This can lead to challenges in behavior, coordination and emotional regulation.
Signs of Sensory Processing Challenges
Children with sensory integration difficulties may show the following signs:
Touch Sensitivity (Tactile Processing)
✔ Avoids certain textures (e.g., clothing, food, surfaces)
✔ Overreacts to light touch (e.g., brushing against someone)
✔ Seeks strong touch input (e.g., rough play, deep pressure)
Balance & Movement (Vestibular System)
✔ Fearful of swings, slides or climbing activities
✔ Gets dizzy easily or avoids spinning motions
✔ Seeks constant movement (e.g., spinning, jumping, rocking)
Body Awareness (Proprioception)
✔ Frequently bumps into objects or people
✔ Struggles with activities requiring precise movement (e.g., writing, throwing a ball)
✔ Seeks deep pressure (e.g., hugs tightly, enjoys pushing/pulling objects)
Hearing Sensitivities (Auditory Processing)
✔ Overreacts to loud or sudden noises
✔ Easily distracted by background sounds
✔ Covers ears in noisy environments
Vision Sensitivities (Visual Processing)
✔ Dislikes bright lights or busy environments
✔ Struggles with tracking words when reading
✔ Prefers dim lighting
Taste & Smell Sensitivities (Gustatory & Olfactory Processing)
✔ Avoids certain foods due to texture or smell
✔ Seeks strong flavors (e.g., spicy, sour)
✔ Overreacts to common smells
Internal Body Awareness (Interoception)
✔ Difficulty recognizing hunger, thirst or bathroom needs
✔ Struggles with emotional awareness and self-regulation
Behavioral and Social Challenges
✔ Becomes easily overwhelmed or frustrated
✔ Has difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
✔ Avoids group activities due to sensory overload
How Occupational Therapy Helps with Sensory Processing
Occupational therapy for sensory integration helps children regulate their sensory responses, improving their ability to focus, participate in daily activities and manage emotions. Therapists use sensory integration therapy to help children respond to sensory input in a more organized way.
What Happens During Sensory Integration Therapy?
OT sessions include structured activities that support sensory processing, such as:
✅ Swinging & Spinning – Enhances balance and coordination
✅ Obstacle Courses & Climbing – Develops motor planning and body awareness
✅ Textured Materials & Sensory Play – Helps children become comfortable with different sensations
✅ Weighted Blankets & Compression Tools – Provides calming deep pressure
✅ Auditory & Visual Activities – Helps children manage sensitivities to light and sound
Benefits of Sensory Integration Therapy
✔ Improved focus and attention
✔ Better emotional regulation and self-control
✔ Increased confidence in social situations
✔ Enhanced coordination and motor skills
✔ Reduced anxiety related to sensory triggers
Who Can Benefit from Sensory Integration Therapy?
Sensory integration therapy helps children with:
🔹 Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
🔹 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
🔹 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
🔹 Developmental Delays
🔹 Anxiety & Emotional Regulation Challenges
🔹 Learning Disabilities
At Q Enrichment Center, our expert occupational therapists create personalized therapy plans to help children develop the sensory skills they need to succeed in school, social interactions and everyday life.
👉 Contact us today to learn how sensory integration therapy can support your child’s development!
