As so many parents know - sensory integration issues refer to difficulties processing and responding to sensory information from the environment.
To help your child with sensory integration issues, it is important to work with occupational therapists, who can provide assessments and interventions that target the specific difficulties the child is experiencing.
Some strategies that may be helpful include:
Creating a sensory-friendly environment: This may involve reducing noise and lighting levels, providing a comfortable and organized space, and limiting distractions.
Sensory diet: A sensory diet is a customized plan of activities and strategies that help a child to regulate their sensory system and improve their ability to focus and attend.
Using adaptive equipment such as fidget toys, weighted blankets, or earmuffs can help a child to regulate their sensory system and improve their ability to focus and attend.
Sensory-based motor training: This type of therapy uses movement and exercise to help a child improve their ability to process and respond to sensory information.
Social skills training: Children with sensory integration issues may have difficulty with social interactions, so it may be helpful to work on developing social skills.
It is also important to involve your child in the process and to make sure that any strategies or interventions used are developmentally appropriate and enjoyable for the child.
One of the methods I used when my son was young (and still use in his 20sand ) is having him wear fitted, soft rash guards, without itchy tags (which he pulls off immediately anyway).
The soft pressure provided by the clothing has a calming effect and helps my son feel more in control of his body.
It is also good to remove the itchy tags right away before your child rips them off, as tags can cause discomfort and distraction.
Using clothing without tags or with tags made of soft material can also be helpful.
Additionally, using clothing that is made of soft, breathable materials can also be beneficial, as it can help to reduce irritation and discomfort.
It's important to remember that every child is different and what works for one child may not work for another. Continue to work with your child's occupational therapist to find strategies that are tailored to your child's specific needs and preferences.
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