Sensory integration is the process by which the brain receives, organizes, and interprets information from our senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, as well as body position and movement. and movement. This process is vital for us to function, learn, and interact with the world around us.
When we touch an object, smell a smell, or hear a sound, our senses transmit information to the brain, which processes it and decides how to react. it and decides how we should react. For example, when you hold a hot cup of coffee, you instantly feel the heat and automatically bring the cup carefully to your lips to avoid burning yourself. This is the result of a fast and accurate sensory process.
Sensory integration is the process by which the brain receives, organizes, and interprets information from our senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, as well as body position and movement. and movement. This process is vital for us to function, learn, and interact with the world around us.
When we touch an object, smell a smell, or hear a sound, our senses transmit information to the brain, which processes it and decides how to react. it and decides how we should react. For example, when you hold a hot cup of coffee, you instantly feel the heat and automatically bring the cup carefully to your lips to avoid burning yourself. This is the result of a fast and accurate sensory process.
SENSOR INTEGRATION ALLOWS US TO:
Coordinate movements
for example, to keep your balance on a bicycle
Respond to changes in the environment
for example, avoiding obstacles while running
Learn new skills
For example, rollerblading
Understand social signals
for example, hearing voice tones or seeing facial expressions
THE ROLE OF SENSORY INTEGRATION IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Sensory integration is especially important for children, as their brains are just learning to perceive and organize sensory information. For example, toddlers perceive the world through touch, taste, and sight - they reach for brightly colored toys, feel textures, and explore objects around them.
Proper sensory integration is important for the development of reading, writing, communication and socialization skills. If a child has difficulties
with sensory integration, it can affect their ability to concentrate, coordinate, or regulate emotions. For example, some children may be overly sensitive to certain sounds or textures and avoid them, while others may seek out additional stimulation.
PROBLEMS OF SENSORY INTEGRATION
Some children and adults have sensory integration disorders (sensory dysfunction) that can affect their daily activities. Here are some examples:
Hypersensitivity
People can be extremely sensitive to sounds, light or touch.
For example, the noise of a vacuum cleaner can cause them great discomfort or even pain.
Hyposensitivity
They may need more stimulation to feel normal. This can manifest itself, for example, in a constant desire to move or touch different surfaces.
Dysfunction of
sensory modulation
It is difficult for people to regulate their behavior in response to sensory information. They may react inappropriately to the environment.
HOW TO HELP IMPROVE SENSORY INTEGRATION?
Sensory therapy can be helpful for children and adults who have difficulties with sensory integration. Under the guidance of a professional, such as an occupational therapist, an individualized program can be developed to improve sensory processing. This therapy often includes exercises and games that stimulate the different senses and help the brain process information more efficiently.
Sensory rooms where children can safely explore a variety of stimuli are also beneficial for development. They can include soft mats, textured objects, colorful lights, soft music, and other elements to stimulate the senses.
HOW TO HELP IMPROVE SENSORY INTEGRATION?
Sensory therapy can be helpful for children and adults who have difficulties with sensory integration. Under the guidance of a professional, such as an occupational therapist, an individualized program can be developed to improve sensory processing. This therapy often includes exercises and games that stimulate the different senses and help the brain process information more efficiently.
Sensory rooms where children can safely explore a variety of stimuli are also beneficial for development. They can include soft mats, textured objects, colorful lights, soft music, and other elements to stimulate the senses.