Sensory Integration
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Autism and Art Therapy course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Sensory Integration #
Sensory integration is the process by which the brain organizes and interprets s… #
It involves the ability to take in, process, and respond to sensory stimuli efficiently. Individuals with sensory integration difficulties may have challenges with regulating their responses to sensory input, leading to sensory processing disorder (SPD).
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) #
Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition in which the brain has trouble… #
This can manifest in a variety of ways, such as hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to sensory stimuli. Individuals with SPD may struggle with everyday tasks and interactions due to difficulties in processing sensory information.
Sensory Modulation #
Sensory modulation refers to the brain's ability to regulate and adjust response… #
This involves filtering out irrelevant sensory information and responding appropriately to relevant stimuli. Individuals with sensory modulation difficulties may have trouble staying focused in noisy environments or regulating their responses to sensory input.
Sensory Discrimination #
Sensory discrimination refers to the brain's ability to differentiate between di… #
This includes being able to identify and interpret sensory input accurately, such as distinguishing between textures, temperatures, or sounds. Difficulties in sensory discrimination can lead to challenges in perceiving and understanding sensory information correctly.
Sensory #
Based Motor Disorder:
A sensory #
based motor disorder is a condition in which sensory processing difficulties impact motor skills and coordination. This can result in challenges with movement, balance, and coordination, as well as difficulties in planning and executing motor tasks. Individuals with sensory-based motor disorders may struggle with activities such as handwriting, sports, or fine motor tasks.
Proprioception #
Proprioception is the sense that enables us to perceive the position, movement,… #
It provides information about the location of our body in space and helps us coordinate movements accurately. Proprioceptive input is essential for tasks such as walking, reaching, and grasping objects.
Vestibular Sense #
The vestibular sense is the sense of balance and spatial orientation that is reg… #
It provides information about the body's position in relation to gravity and helps maintain balance and coordination. The vestibular sense is crucial for activities such as walking, running, and maintaining posture.
Visual Processing #
Visual processing refers to the brain's ability to interpret and make sense of v… #
This includes skills such as visual perception, visual memory, and visual-motor integration. Difficulties in visual processing can impact tasks such as reading, writing, and interpreting visual cues in the environment.
Auditory Processing #
Auditory processing refers to the brain's ability to interpret and make sense of… #
This includes skills such as auditory discrimination, auditory memory, and auditory sequencing. Difficulties in auditory processing can lead to challenges in understanding spoken language, following directions, and processing auditory stimuli accurately.
Tactile Processing #
Tactile processing refers to the brain's ability to interpret and respond to tac… #
This includes skills such as tactile discrimination, tactile defensiveness, and tactile seeking behaviors. Difficulties in tactile processing can result in hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to touch, impacting activities such as grooming, dressing, and social interactions.
Olfactory Processing #
Olfactory processing refers to the brain's ability to interpret and respond to o… #
This includes skills such as identifying and discriminating between different odors, as well as regulating responses to smell. Difficulties in olfactory processing can impact behaviors and emotions, as well as sensory experiences in the environment.
Gustatory Processing #
Gustatory processing refers to the brain's ability to interpret and respond to g… #
This includes skills such as identifying and discriminating between different tastes, as well as regulating responses to taste. Difficulties in gustatory processing can impact eating behaviors and preferences, as well as sensory experiences related to food.
Multi #
Sensory Integration:
Multi #
sensory integration is the ability of the brain to combine information from multiple sensory modalities in order to form a coherent perception of the environment. This involves integrating input from different senses such as vision, hearing, touch, and proprioception to create a unified sensory experience. Multi-sensory integration plays a crucial role in tasks such as speech perception, spatial awareness, and social interactions.
Sensory Diet #
A sensory diet is a personalized plan of sensory activities and strategies desig… #
It typically includes a combination of sensory input such as movement, touch, sound, and visual stimulation to help regulate arousal levels and improve sensory processing. Sensory diets are often used to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in managing sensory challenges and promoting self-regulation.
Sensory Room #
A sensory room is a specially designed environment that provides a range of sens… #
Sensory rooms may include equipment such as sensory lights, tactile surfaces, sound machines, and therapy balls to offer a variety of sensory input. They are commonly used in schools, therapy centers, and healthcare settings to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties.
Deep Pressure Therapy #
Deep pressure therapy is a sensory intervention that involves applying firm pres… #
This can help individuals regulate their responses to sensory stimuli, decrease sensory seeking behaviors, and increase body awareness. Deep pressure therapy may involve techniques such as weighted blankets, compression garments, or massage to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Therapeutic Listening #
Therapeutic listening is an intervention that uses specially designed music and… #
It involves listening to specific types of music or sound frequencies to stimulate the auditory system and promote regulation of sensory responses. Therapeutic listening is often used in conjunction with other sensory interventions to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties.
Wilbarger Protocol (Brushing Protocol) #
The Wilbarger Protocol, also known as the brushing protocol, is a sensory interv… #
It involves using a specific brushing technique with a surgical brush to stimulate the tactile system and decrease sensory defensiveness. The Wilbarger Protocol is commonly used in occupational therapy to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties.
Environmental Modification #
Environmental modification involves making changes to the physical environment t… #
This can include adjusting lighting, reducing noise levels, providing sensory-friendly spaces, and using visual supports to create a more sensory-friendly environment. Environmental modification can help individuals regulate their responses to sensory input and improve their overall sensory experiences.
Individualized Sensory Strategies #
Individualized sensory strategies are personalized techniques and accommodations… #
This can include providing sensory tools, creating sensory breaks, establishing sensory routines, and offering sensory supports to help individuals regulate their responses to sensory input. Individualized sensory strategies are designed to promote self-regulation and enhance participation in daily activities.
Joint Attention #
Sensory Seeking #
Sensory seeking refers to a pattern of behavior in which individuals actively se… #
This can include seeking out movement, touch, sound, or visual stimulation in order to meet sensory needs. Sensory seeking behaviors can help individuals maintain focus, increase alertness, and self-regulate responses to sensory input.
Sensory Avoidance #
Sensory avoidance refers to a pattern of behavior in which individuals actively… #
This can include avoiding loud noises, bright lights, crowded spaces, or certain textures in order to reduce sensory discomfort. Sensory avoidance behaviors can impact participation in daily activities and social interactions.
Sensory Overload #
Sensory overload occurs when an individual is exposed to an excessive amount of… #
This can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and sensory discomfort, as well as challenges in regulating responses to sensory stimuli. Sensory overload can occur in environments that are overly stimulating or in situations where sensory input is unpredictable or intense.
Sensory Under #
Responsivity:
Sensory under #
responsivity refers to a pattern of behavior in which individuals have a reduced sensitivity to sensory input and may fail to respond appropriately to environmental stimuli. This can result in difficulties in detecting or processing sensory information, leading to challenges in regulating responses to sensory input. Sensory under-responsivity can impact engagement in activities, social interactions, and daily routines.
Sensory Over #
Responsivity:
Sensory over #
responsivity refers to a heightened sensitivity to sensory input that results in exaggerated or aversive responses to environmental stimuli. This can lead to strong reactions to sensory triggers such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures, as well as difficulties in regulating responses to sensory input. Sensory over-responsivity can impact participation in activities, social interactions, and overall well-being.
Sensory #
Based Anxiety:
Sensory #
based anxiety refers to feelings of fear, worry, or discomfort that are triggered by sensory input and sensations. This can result in heightened levels of anxiety in response to sensory triggers such as loud noises, crowded spaces, or unexpected tactile sensations. Sensory-based anxiety can impact daily functioning, social interactions, and emotional well-being, as well as contribute to sensory processing difficulties.
Self #
Regulation:
Self #
regulation refers to the ability to manage and control one's emotions, behaviors, and responses to sensory input in order to adapt to different situations and environments. It involves monitoring and adjusting arousal levels, emotions, and sensory responses to maintain an appropriate level of engagement and interaction. Self-regulation is essential for managing stress, anxiety, and sensory processing difficulties.
Executive Functioning #
Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive processes that are responsibl… #
It involves skills such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibition, and self-regulation. Executive functioning plays a critical role in managing sensory processing difficulties, regulating responses to sensory input, and engaging in daily activities effectively.
Social Communication #
Social communication refers to the exchange of information, thoughts, and feelin… #
It involves skills such as verbal and nonverbal communication, perspective-taking, emotional regulation, and social cues. Social communication is essential for building relationships, understanding others' intentions, and engaging in collaborative activities. Individuals with sensory processing difficulties may have challenges with social communication due to difficulties in regulating responses to sensory input.
Visual Supports #
Visual supports are tools and aids that use visual information to enhance commun… #
This can include visual schedules, visual cues, picture symbols, and graphic organizers to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in understanding and following instructions, transitioning between activities, and managing sensory challenges. Visual supports can help individuals regulate their responses to sensory input and promote independence in daily activities.
Environmental Cues #
Environmental cues are signals and prompts in the physical environment that prov… #
This can include visual cues, auditory cues, tactile cues, and olfactory cues that help individuals anticipate and respond to sensory input effectively. Environmental cues can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in regulating their responses to sensory input and promoting successful participation in daily activities.
Task Analysis #
Task analysis is a method of breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageabl… #
This involves identifying the specific skills and behaviors required for each step of the task, providing clear instructions and prompts, and offering feedback and reinforcement for successful completion. Task analysis can help individuals with sensory processing difficulties manage sensory challenges, regulate responses to sensory input, and improve task performance.
Peer Modeling #
Peer modeling is a strategy that involves using peers or classmates as role mode… #
This can help individuals with sensory processing difficulties learn and practice appropriate social behaviors, communication skills, and sensory regulation techniques in a supportive and inclusive environment. Peer modeling can promote social inclusion, collaboration, and positive social interactions among individuals with sensory processing difficulties.
Positive Reinforcement #
Positive reinforcement is a strategy that involves using rewards and incentives… #
This can include verbal praise, tangible rewards, or social reinforcement to motivate individuals with sensory processing difficulties to engage in tasks, follow instructions, and regulate responses to sensory input. Positive reinforcement can help build confidence, self-esteem, and motivation in managing sensory challenges and developing new skills.
Collaborative Team Approach #
A collaborative team approach involves professionals, caregivers, and individual… #
This can include occupational therapists, speech therapists, teachers, parents, and other professionals collaborating to create individualized plans, share information, and coordinate efforts to address sensory challenges effectively. A collaborative team approach can enhance communication, consistency, and support for individuals with sensory processing difficulties.
Functional Behavioral Assessment #
A functional behavioral assessment is a systematic process for identifying the u… #
This involves analyzing the antecedents, behaviors, and consequences of challenging behaviors, as well as identifying environmental factors and sensory triggers that may contribute to behavioral difficulties. A functional behavioral assessment can help professionals and caregivers develop targeted interventions and supports to address sensory challenges and promote positive behavior.
Transdisciplinary Collaboration #
Transdisciplinary collaboration involves professionals from different discipline… #
This can include occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, educators, and other professionals collaborating to share knowledge, skills, and resources in order to address sensory challenges effectively. Transdisciplinary collaboration can promote a holistic approach to intervention, communication, and support for individuals with sensory processing difficulties.
Home #
School Collaboration:
Home #
school collaboration involves parents, caregivers, and educators working together to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in both home and school settings. This can include sharing information, implementing consistent strategies, and coordinating efforts to address sensory challenges and promote success in daily activities. Home-school collaboration can help create a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with sensory processing difficulties, as well as enhance communication, understanding, and cooperation between home and school environments.
Community Inclusion #
Community inclusion involves providing opportunities for individuals with sensor… #
This can include accessing community resources, participating in community programs, and engaging in community events to develop social skills, build relationships, and practice sensory regulation techniques. Community inclusion can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in expanding their social networks, building confidence, and increasing participation in community life.
Art Therapy #
Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses creative processes such as… #
Art therapy can be used to support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in expressing themselves, regulating emotions, and processing sensory experiences through creative expression. Art therapy can provide a safe and nonverbal outlet for individuals with sensory processing difficulties to communicate, explore sensory challenges, and develop self-awareness.
Music Therapy #
Music therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that uses music #
based activities and techniques to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Music therapy can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in regulating arousal levels, improving sensory processing, and enhancing communication skills through musical experiences. Music therapy can help individuals with sensory processing difficulties engage in sensory experiences, express emotions, and develop self-regulation skills through music-based interventions.
Dance/Movement Therapy #
Dance/movement therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses movement and da… #
Dance/movement therapy can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in developing body awareness, coordination, and sensory integration through movement experiences. Dance/movement therapy can help individuals with sensory processing difficulties regulate sensory input, express emotions, and build confidence through movement-based interventions.
Play Therapy #
Play therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that uses play #
based activities and techniques to help individuals explore feelings, develop social skills, and process experiences. Play therapy can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in engaging in sensory play, practicing social interactions, and regulating responses to sensory input through play experiences. Play therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with sensory processing difficulties to explore sensory challenges, build relationships, and develop coping strategies through play-based interventions.
Animal #
Assisted Therapy:
Animal #
assisted therapy is a therapeutic intervention that involves interactions with animals to promote physical, emotional, and social well-being. Animal-assisted therapy can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in regulating arousal levels, improving social skills, and enhancing sensory experiences through interactions with therapy animals. Animal-assisted therapy can provide opportunities for individuals with sensory processing difficulties to engage in sensory activities, build relationships, and develop self-regulation skills through animal-assisted interventions.
Nature #
Based Therapy:
Nature #
based therapy is a therapeutic approach that involves connecting with nature to promote physical, emotional, and sensory well-being. Nature-based therapy can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in regulating sensory input, reducing stress, and enhancing sensory experiences through outdoor activities and nature exploration. Nature-based therapy can provide opportunities for individuals with sensory processing difficulties to engage in sensory-rich environments, practice self-regulation skills, and develop a connection to nature through nature-based interventions.
Artistic Expression #
Artistic expression refers to the process of using creative mediums such as visu… #
Artistic expression can provide individuals with sensory processing difficulties a nonverbal outlet for self-expression, emotional regulation, and sensory exploration. Artistic expression can help individuals with sensory processing difficulties develop self-awareness, build confidence, and express themselves creatively through artistic activities.
Creative Exploration #
Creative exploration involves engaging in open #
ended creative activities such as drawing, painting, crafting, and improvisation to explore ideas, emotions, and sensory experiences. Creative exploration can support individuals with sensory processing difficulties in experimenting with sensory input, expressing emotions, and developing self-regulation skills through creative expression. Creative exploration can provide a safe and flexible environment for individuals with sensory processing difficulties to explore sensory challenges, build confidence, and engage in self-discovery through creative activities.
Expressive Arts #
Expressive Arts