Sensory Integration Therapy (SIT) is an approach designed to help children who have difficulty processing and responding to sensory information. This therapy is often used for children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and other developmental challenges. The goal of SIT is to improve a child’s ability to interpret sensory input and respond to it in an appropriate, organized way.
Understanding Sensory Processing
- Sensory processing involves how the brain interprets information from the senses: sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, movement (vestibular sense), and body position (proprioception).
- Children with sensory issues may be over- or under-sensitive to sensory input, leading to behavioral challenges. For example, a child might avoid certain textures, sounds, or movements because they find them overwhelming.
Goals of Sensory Integration Therapy
- Improve Sensory Processing: SIT aims to help children respond more appropriately to sensory stimuli.
- Enhance Functional Skills: By improving sensory processing, children can better focus on activities, engage with others, and handle new situations.
- Build Confidence: As children improve their response to sensory input, they often gain confidence in exploring new environments and trying new activities.