Summary
The overall goal of understanding your child’s or your own sensory preferences is to help them learn how to self-regulate in order to be functional in whatever setting you are in. Understanding that you are overwhelmed or underaroused can help one to determine what kind of activity needs to be done in order to be calm, alert and focused. When we are overwhelmed, calming strategies are helpful. When we are understimulated, alerting strategies are helpful. Remember, what works for one person may not work for another and our personal preferences can change daily.
When should one seek professional help?
When problems are causing serious distress or problems functioning
When solving things without outside help, or solving things with self-help techniques alone have not been successful
For further information
Speak with any Occupational Therapist (OT) or Physical Therapist (PT) trained in sensory integration, processing or modulation issues
Manufacturers of Sensory Related Products
Although many of the sensory products can be home made (there are various websites which describe how to do this), there are various companies which sell these products as well.
Some manufacturers include:
http://www.premier.ca for a wide variety of products
http://www.southpawenterprises.com for weighted vests
Readings
The ALERT Program, by Williams and Shellenberger, which is a program that “… promotes awareness of how individuals regulate their arousal states and encourages the use of sensory-motor strategies."
Out-Of-Sync Child, by Carol Kranowitz (she also has a website as well, at www.out-of-sync-child.com/)
Out-Of-Sync Student, by Carol Kranowitz (she also has a website as well, at www.out-of-sync-student.com/)
Sense Abilities: Understanding Sensory Integration, by Maryann Colby Trott
Building Bridges, Ellen Yack
The Sensory-Sensitive Child: Practical Solutions for Out-of-Bounds Behaviour, Karen A. Smith
Kathleen Chara et al. (2004). Sensory Smarts: A Book For Kids With Adhd Or Autism Spectrum Disorders Struggling With Sensory Integration Problems.
Sense Abilities: Understanding Sensory Integration, by Maryann Colby Trott
Where can we get help in the Ottawa area?
B
ecause
of the lack of knowledge about sensory processing conditions, it is
difficult to find health professionals in this area. Often the best
option is for families to learn about the condition, and implement
their own interventions!
Treatment is normally provided by those who have specific knowledge in this area, who are generally Occupational Therapists (OT):
Any school-based Occupational Therapists (OT), although they may tend to focus more on writing.
Community Occupational Therapy, such as Communicare Therapy, 613-738-2871
Tanya Nash, a physiotherapist (PT),with Littlestar Developmental Services offers an eclectic approach. Web: http://littlestar.realmyth.net/
Other treatment resources found to be anecdotally helpful may include Braingym, yoga, andmartial arts.
Most anger management programs may have techniques which somewhat address arousal
Organizations for youth with developmental disorders often have information about sensory processing because sensory processing disorders are common in such youth. Organizations such as:
Children at Risk, 235 Donald Street, Suite 212, Ottawa, Ontario, K1K 1N1. Tel: (613) 741-8255. Fax: (613) 741-5530. Provides services and programs to families of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders to develop their child's behavioral, communication, and social skills, and to advocate for their ongoing needs. Web: www.childrenatrisk.ca.
Autism Ottawa Society of Ontario, Ottawa Chapter, 211 Bronson Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1R 6H5, (613) 230-6305. Web: www.autismottawa.com