Effectively Dealing with Sensory Integration Dysfunction

Childhood professionals deal with a complex variety of issues every day such as sensory integration dysfunction, ADHD, and similar challenges. In their quest to provide the most effective tools and techniques to help children reach their full potential in life, it can be confusing about which methods are best.

Fortunately, LifeSkills4Kids has done much of the research and homework on a variety of tools and strategies to support childhood professionals and parents when teaching children. Some of the most effective tools are the SticKids, Alert program, and weighted therapy resources.

But what makes these tools so effective and why should childhood professionals or parents utilize them in their care plans?

SticKids and Alert Program value

First of all, the SticKids and Alert Programs are evidence based resources that help parents and teachers understand the basic concepts of sensory processing. It is only by understanding the neurological basis which drives behavior that we can begin to help and teach children. These tools are proven to help teach successful self-regulation skills which are fundamental to a child’s ability to manage sensory integration challenges.

Some of the sensory integration challenges and typical processing demonstrated by children include:

• Avoiding or unnecessarily seeking sensory input in daily events
• Emotional sensitivity, melt-downs, or need for retreat and isolation
• Difficulty with focus, arousal, and self-regulation for normal everyday tasks
• Reduced quality of motor response such as coordination, balance, or sequencing

The SticKids and Alert Programs are specifically designed with these issues in mind and they are aimed at providing the appropriate level of guidance and stimulation needed to overcome sensory integration issues. And since they are for use by both parents and professionals, it helps ensure a 360 degree approach and consistency when teaching children to reach their full potential at home, at school, and in social settings.

Weighted Therapy solutions

Weighted therapy is also recognized as deep pressure therapy and there has been a significant amount of research conducted on its effectiveness in recent years. Based on research results, using weighted lap pads, weighted blankets, or weighted vests can have a clinical benefit in helping children become calm and relaxed. It enhances and promotes their ability to concentrate and focus more successfully.

Just 5-10% of a child’ body weight can be effective. Monitoring the use of weighted therapy is important since children should not use the therapy for extended periods of time or when sleeping.

Based on the recent results of weighted therapy, it is probable that additional research will further solidify the value and significance of this treatment modality. It is a simple solution that reaps far-reaching benefits for children who have sensory integration dysfunction.

LifeSkills4Kids has used weighted therapy for many years. We have included an array of options for weighted solutions on our website and are currently evaluating and researching new sources of supplies. Our clients indicate through many testimonials that they have seen a tremendous improvement in their children’s behavior when deploying this treatment method.

Website resources as supplements

In addition to providing valuable resources such as SticKids, the Alert Program, and Weighted Therapy tools, LifeSkills4Kids also offers a valuable website with general information for teachers and parents. This website is packed with compelling information and statistics to support these treatment modalities. There are also a number of online tours where SticKids software can be tested first-hand to understand exactly how it works.

The website includes a variety of resources proven to be effective for children with Asperger’s, ADHD, and other sensory integration related dysfunction. Books, games, CDs, DVDs, and other tools make it easy and fun for children to learn and develop their skills.

Tools are focused on all age groups and can be adapted according to a child’s age and situation. From pre-schoolers through adolescents and adults, the materials and tools are effective. LifeSkills4Kids is a valuable resource to help children learn throughout their developmental years, or to apply to children of different ages who may need help and support simultaneously.

Help children reach their full potential

With such a barrage of external and environmental influences surrounding children today, it makes good sense to surround them with proven treatment modalities that help them successfully interact with others. These tools also enable them to learn new skills both physiologically and neurologically. When children are able to better manage the influences that drive any type of sensory integration dysfunction, they are better able to reach their full potential every day.

LifeSkills4Kids is dedicated and committed to offering evidence based and proven solutions for children and adults. Debbie Hopper, the LifeSkills4Kids founder and owner, is a master’s prepared Occupational Therapist with a passion for helping children, parents, and teachers dealing with these issues. Her professional knowledge and expertise, combined with her personal passion to help others, gives her the ability to create a business with powerful tools and resources that are effective and easily accessible.