Sensory Integration involves the efficient registration and processing of sensation through touch, movement, body position, vision, smell, taste and sound.
The process of the brain organising and interpreting this information is called Sensory Integration. Effective Sensory Integration provides a crucial foundation for later more complex learning and behaviour.
For most children, Sensory Integration develops in the course of ordinary childhood activities but for some children (as many of 5-10%) Sensory Integration does not develop as efficiently as it should, this is known as Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).
When the process of integrating sensation is disordered, a number of problems in learning, motor skill development and behaviour may be evident. A child may be over sensitive to noise or touch. They may seek movement or appear to be ‘on the go’ all the time.
Children with SPD require specialist support to enable them to manage and mature their sensory systems.