Behavior and Sensory Integration

Hopefully you have been able to try some of the suggestions provided.

I want to add that it is important to be aware that children who have difficulty processing sensory information have difficulty paying attention, difficulty tolerating food textures, clothing, and can also exhibit behavioral outbursts for unknown reasons, therefore it is imperative that you implement a behavioral program along with a sensory processing program.

Because a child is born with difficulty processing incoming information they react differently then one might expect in a given situation. This is what they know and it has become a negative behavior...therefore the way to change the behavior is to help the child process incoming sensory (visual, vestibular, prioprioceptive, auditory and tactile) information correctly, while also changing the behavior.

For example, John might have hyper sensative reaction to touch and as a result becomes upset and hits the person who bumped into him while standing in line at lunch. John needs to understand that this behavior is unacceptable and a consequence should be provided, however if you don't address the sensory issue the problem will continue to occur and vice versa.

As a therapist, I believe you have to set an expectation for your child and help them achieve it. Just like with any child you have to determine if they do better with positive or negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is always appropriate, but I am a firm believer that if you set up a rule and the rule is broken then a consequence must take place (remember to be age appropriate. Remember that consequence must have meaning to the child or it will not be effective in changing the behavior.

I have worked with many wonderful children, their families and parents who I wonder about a lot. I think a lot about their parents and know they struggled. I often found that many parents felt bad that it was more difficult for their child and as a result did to much for them.

Oh, how I understand...but I encourage you to see what they can do and push them to do more. Encourage independence by expecting them to try first and only assist as needed.

If you have any questions or would like suggestions please let me know.