Sensory integration therapy

Sensory Integration Therapy - What is it?

Sensory integration is a neurological process that is crucial to how we organize and process sensory input from our environment and our own bodies. This process allows us to use our bodies effectively in our environment and is therefore fundamental to development, daily actions and learning.

Sensory integration is a normal, dynamic neurological process. The brain organizes the sensory stimuli it receives from the environment and enables us to react appropriately to our surroundings. These sensory stimuli are organized, processed, linked together and interpreted so that they become meaningful and usable for us. This use can manifest itself in the perception and detection of our body or our environment, but also in adapted behavior, actions or learning processes.

Sensory integration synchronizes all areas of the central nervous system that are necessary to function meaningfully in our environment and to be emotionally satisfied. It links different areas of perception and plays a crucial role in children's overall development as they use their experiences to learn new things. This leads to the formation of new connections in the brain's nervous system and expands the memory of experience.

Sensory integration influences not only motor development (hence the term “sensorimotor skills”), but also linguistic, intellectual and emotional development. A child builds on their knowledge and experiences, similar to building a house, where a strong foundation is crucial. If this foundation is unstable or inadequately prepared, problems such as those seen in sensory integration disorders can occur.

Sensory integration therapy is used in many different areas of pediatrics. Here are some signs that may indicate a sensory integration disorder:

During infancy and toddlerhood:

• Motor development delay
• Asymmetrical posture
• Defense against tenderness and touch
• Severe sleep disorders
• Difficulty sucking, swallowing, drinking and eating
• Unusual reactions to harmless stimuli

In preschool and school age:

• Motor development delay
• clumsiness
• Behavioral problems such as aggression and regression
• Weak attitude
• Nocturnal wetting
• fears
• Low retention
• Difficulty concentrating
• Learning and performance disorders
• Delayed language development

We are here to help children and their families overcome these challenges and promote their sensory integration to support healthy development. If you have any questions or are interested in our therapy, we will be happy to help you.