One of the methods used in Occupational Therapy is Sensory Integration
The Sensory Integration approach is one of the methods used in Occupational Therapy.
Sensory Integration is the brain’s ability to organize sensory information for efficient use (Ayres, 1972).
The method-therapy of Sensory Integration is widely known and considered very effective. It is achieved through activities/games that children enjoy (swings, roller skates, trampoline, balls, etc). In a structured and protected environment with appropriate equipment, sensory information is given so that the child can receive it and through it come to completion. When there is insufficient Sensory Integration, this dysfunction affects the skills required for learning, movement, emotional maturity and social behaviour, stress management, play and by extension school.
The method of Sensory Integration is considered necessary in some cases and is more effective than other treatments. It is appropriate from the first month of life of the newborn and is applied in cases such as children with pervasive developmental disorders including autism, attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity, dyspraxia, specific developmental and motor difficulties, specific learning difficulties, balance and orientation disorders, bilateral integration and sequencing dysfunction, etc.
Through Sensory Integration applied in the occupational therapy department, organization, concentration, regulation of alertness, ability to learn and abstract concepts, as well as specialization of the cerebral hemispheres and the sides of the body are achieved.
In some cases the Sensory Integration method is combined for best results with the Therapeutic Listening program, P. Wilbarger's protocol or even M.O.R.E (Motor, Oral, Respiration, Eye).
