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The Center for Childhood Development » Specialized Therapies

Specialized Therapies

Sensory Processing

Sensory Processing begins with our ability to take in information through our senses. This includes the five basic senses, as well as our sensations of movement (vestibular) and body position (proprioception).

This information must be organized and interpreted so that we can make a meaningful response. This process is called Sensory Processing, and for many people, it is an automatic one. It provides the foundation for more complex processes, including:

For some, however, the flow of sensation can be disorganized, inefficient, and not integrated, demanding effort and attention. An inability to adequately analyze, organize and integrate sensory information is called a Sensory Processing Disorder.

A Sensory Processing Disorder can manifest itself as hypersensitivity to sensations that are typically processed as normal, such as tags in a shirt, certain sounds, movements, or an unexpected touch. Defensive individuals may go into sensory overload, where their arousal is in a state of "shut down."

Individuals with a Sensory Processing Disorder may also have a low level of arousal, in which everyday sensations are barely processed. These individuals may be seen as having a flat or restricted affect, low tone, and be more passive and sedentary.

A third type of Sensory Processing Disorder includes those individuals with a narrow band of arousal. These are individuals who seek out excitatory sensory input, frequently in attempts to manage a low level of arousal. They typically use movements that are quick and disconnected, appearing to have challenges with attention and focus.

Finally, individuals with a Sensory Processing Disorder may also have challenges with postural strength and coordination, as well as motor planning and sequencing.

Sensory Processing Disorders can be treated. Therapy focuses on providing the individual with a playful environment that encourages intensity, duration, and sensations that the child's central nervous system craves. The activities must challenge the individual's ability to respond appropriately to the sensory input by making a successful, organized response. Doing so promotes integration and processing, building the foundation for the demands of more complex skills. As integration occurs, adaptive behaviors improve and learning improves. Therapy can help a child build a strong sense of self-esteem and develop the skills needed to interact successfully in social situations.

For additional information regarding Sensory Processing, visit: