Through sensory integration, a child can learn who they are, where they are, and what is happening around them.
Our occupational therapists at Connections Therapy Center use individualized plans to address every child’s specific needs. Through the use of play and other recreational activities, we help provide a child with the skills needed for independent functioning that sets them up for a successful childhood. Occupational therapy helps to improve fine motor, neuromotor, and sensory integration skills. Our therapy sessions are hosted in settings that provide each child with the appropriate level of stimulation for their own personal development. Here is a brief overview of sensory integration and its benefits for children.
Sensory Integration Explained
Human beings have five senses, which include touch, taste, sight, smell, hearing. However, there is actually an additional two senses that are helpful for children and adolescents who are learning to interact with the world. This includes vestibular (the pull of gravity) and proprioception (overall body awareness and movement). Sensory integration is the process humans use these senses to take in information and organize it in ways that it permits us to learn about ourselves and the world around us. Through sensory integration, a child can learn who they are, where they are, and what is happening around them.
Why is it Important?
Sensory Integration is an unconscious process that occurs naturally without us even thinking about it. In a way, it is automatic and provides our brains with credible information that is then interpreted in a way in which we can accurately depict our surroundings. Sensory Integration allows a person to do things like listen, look, speak, learn, and pay attention. Without it, a person would not be able to select what information is needed to be focused in on. For example, a child in the classroom being able to listen to the teacher and being able to tune out any outside noise. Children need to be able to react and respond to situations accordingly. This is important because this will create a strong foundation that is needed for a child to excel in school.
The Connections Therapy Center
The Connections Therapy Center serves families of children and adolescents with disabilities and special needs. We are a team of experts in the fields of pediatric speech, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and behavioral sciences. As a team, we offer intensive hands-on therapy for children and adolescents, as well as informative and useful resources for families. If you are interested in learning more about what we can do to help your family, visit us online or give us a call at (202) 561-1110 (Washington, D.C. office) or (301) 577-4333 (Lanham office). Want to get more information on how to help your child thrive? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, and Pinterest.