Sensory Integration Therapy For Autism

Introduction

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological developmental disorder caused by differences in the brain. This developmental disorder can affect communication skills, behaviour and learning abilities. It is often diagnosed within the first two years of life. ASD affects individuals in various ways, often leading to challenges in sensory processing. Sensory integration therapy (SIT) is a treatment approach designed to help individuals with autism better process and respond to sensory information. 

Signs and symptoms¹

Up to 12 months of age

• Little or no babbling
• Little or no eye contact
• Showing more interest in objects than people
• Appearing not to hear when spoken to directly
• Limited or no interest in other children
• Repeating words or phrases without appearing to understand them
• Distinct reactions to lights, tastes, smells, sounds, colours and textures

Up to 2 years of age, signs may also include

• very specific area of interest
• limited or no interest in other children
• behavioural issues like self-injury or self-isolation
• repeating words or phrases without appearing to understand them
• difficulty with reciprocal social interactions (like playing peek-a-boo)
• liking to have things a certain way, such as always eating the same food

Possible signs of autism at any age can include

• little eye contact
• distinct reactions to:
  • lights
  • tastes
  • smells
  • sounds
  • colours
  • textures
• very specific interests
• repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
• repetitive behaviours, such as spinning
• nonverbal communication or delayed language development
• intense reactions to minor changes in routine or surroundings

What is sensory integration therapy?

Sensory integration Therapy (SIT) is a therapeutic intervention used in children with developmental and behavioural disorders.² Sensory integration therapy is also known as sensory integration and processing disorder therapy. This therapy aims to help individuals better process and react to sensations. People with autism often experience sensory processing difficulties, which can affect their daily lives and overall well-being. Sensory integration therapy is designed to address these difficulties and improve the individual's ability to participate in daily activities.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/kids-swinging-in-the-playroom-8538326/

Activities included in SIT

• Play using brushes, swings, trampolines and balls²
• Other activities include deep pressure, joint compression, oral motor exercises and body massage to enhance arousal states³

Sensory Integration Therapy can be done in a sensory room which has been designed to provide individuals with autism with a safe and controlled environment while they explore and engage in sensory activities.

A sensory room is usually customized to an individual's needs and preferences and in accordance with the specific therapy plan that has been designed by an occupational therapist. The therapist will use a range of sensory integration techniques and activities, such as playing with textured toys, jumping on a trampoline, or swinging on a swing, to help the individual engage in therapeutic sensory experiences.https://www.pexels.com/photo/child-stepping-on-macaroni-3933275/

How does sensory integration therapy work?

Sensory integration therapy is based on the idea that the brain can adapt and change the way it reacts to touch, sound, sight and movement through sensory experiences.⁴ The therapy involves exposing individuals to a variety of sensory experiences in a structured, repetitive way. These experiences are designed to help the individual become more comfortable with sensory input and learn to respond to it in a more adaptive manner.

During sensory integration therapy, a therapist will create a sensory-rich environment that encourages the individual to explore and interact with different textures, sounds, smells, and movements. The therapist will guide the individual through activities that are challenging but achievable, helping them gradually improve their sensory processing abilities.

By repeatedly exposing individuals to these sensory experiences, the therapy aims to help them become more comfortable with sensory input and learn to respond to it in a more adaptive manner. Over time, this can lead to improvements in sensory processing, self-regulation, and overall quality of life for individuals with autism.

Benefits of sensory integration therapy for autism

Improved sensory processing

One of the primary benefits of sensory integration therapy is improved sensory processing. Many individuals with autism experience difficulties in processing sensory information, which can lead to sensory overload or sensory-seeking behaviours. Through repeated exposure to sensory stimuli, individuals learn to interpret sensory information, leading to reduced sensory sensitivity or sensory-seeking behaviours.

Enhanced motor skills

Sensory integration therapy often involves activities that promote improvement in motor skills. The therapy usually includes activities that target coordination, balance, and motor planning, which are areas that individuals with autism may struggle with. This can lead to improvements in fine and gross motor skills, which are often times delayed in individuals with autism.

Better self-regulation

Sensory integration therapy can help individuals with autism learn to self-regulate their sensory responses. Self-regulation refers to the ability to control one's emotions, behaviour, and attention in response to sensory input. This can lead to decreased meltdowns or shutdowns and an improved ability to cope with sensory challenges.

Increased social engagement

By improving sensory processing and self-regulation, sensory integration therapy can also lead to increased social engagement. Many individuals with autism struggle with social skills, in part due to sensory issues that can make social interactions overwhelming or uncomfortable. When sensory processing and self-regulation are improved through sensory integration therapy, individuals may be more willing and able to participate in social activities, leading to improved social skills and relationships.

Enhanced daily functioning

Sensory integration therapy can have a transformative effect on the daily lives of individuals with autism by improving their ability to engage in essential daily activities. Difficulties with sensory processing can make something as simple as eating a meal a challenging experience. Individuals may struggle with textures, tastes, or even the sounds associated with eating. Through sensory integration therapy, individuals can become more comfortable with these sensory experiences, making mealtime a more enjoyable and manageable task.

Improved attention and focus

Sensory integration therapy is not only beneficial for sensory processing but also for improving attention and focus. Individuals with autism often struggle with maintaining attention, especially in environments with high levels of sensory stimuli. By participating in sensory integration activities, individuals learn to filter out irrelevant sensory information and focus on the task at hand. This ability to regulate sensory input can lead to improved attention span and focus, making it easier for individuals to engage in learning, work, and social activities.

FAQ’s

What is sensory integration therapy?

Sensory integration Therapy (SIT) is a therapeutic intervention used in children with developmental and behavioural-behavioural disorders.² Sensory integration therapy is also known as sensory integration and processing disorder therapy. 

What activities are used in sensory integration therapy?

A therapist may use a variety of sensory integration techniques and activities, such as playing with textured toys, jumping on a trampoline, or swinging on a swing.

How long does it take for sensory integration therapy to work?

Therapy sessions generally last between 45 minutes to an hour, and may be provided once or twice a week. The duration of therapy can vary from several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of sensory processing difficulties.

Can adults receive sensory integration therapy?

Sensory integration therapy can be effective for children as well as adults with autism. Adults with autism can also experience difficulties with sensory processing that will influence daily functioning and quality of life. 

Summary

Sensory integration therapy is a valuable treatment approach for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Overall, SIT offers a holistic approach to addressing the sensory challenges faced by individuals with autism. By addressing sensory processing difficulties and improving self-regulation, this therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum. If you or someone you know is affected by autism and sensory processing issues, consider exploring sensory integration therapy as a potential treatment option.