Simply put, a recap; Sensory Integration or Sensory Processing is the neurological process that organizes sensory information received from ones own body and the environment making it possible to interact and respond effectively. Sensory Processing is the relationship between the brain and behavior.
There are 9 sensory systems:
Visual/Eyes
Auditory/Sound
Tactile/Touch
Taste
Smell/Olfactory
Vestibular
Proprioceptive
Gustatory
Interoception
OUR FOCUS FOR THESE ACTIVITIES WILL BE THE PROPRIOCEPTIVE SENSORY SYSTEM
Simply put, the Proprioceptive System is an ongoing circuit between sensory stretch receptors and the Central Nervous System. The sensory stretch receptors are located in our muscles, joints, skin, and ligaments. The brain receives this information to interpret, plan, and to execute movement, force, direction, effort, and coordination in an efficient manner. For example, good proprioception is necessary for knowing what force to hold onto a paper cup without dropping or smashing it, opposed to the force needed for carrying a heavy water pitcher effectively. We rely heavily on this sense throughout the day to keep track of what our bodies are doing.
Accurately interpreting and responding helps us to manipulate objects, make necessary adjustments to our body positioning, and use fine and large motor movements efficiently. Similarly to Vestibular senses, the Proprioceptive Sensory System is necessary for building body awareness and security which are necessary for effective Motor Planning.
Proprioception, along with the Tactile and Vestibular Sensory Systems, are considered the cornerstone to Sensory Integration therapy and treatment. Due to the complexity of the propriceptive sensory system, you may see some of the following behaviors if this system is underdeveloped. In cases of underdeveloped Proprioceptive Processing, the guidance of an experienced Sensory Occupational Therapist should be applied.
Tends to bump, crash, bang, or throws self into other things
Poor endurance, weak muscles, sits in W position
Poor fine motor skills and manipulation of objects
Likes tight clothing
Uncoordinated movements, poor motor planning skills
Slumps at desk, leans on objects to support self, poor posture
Constantly fidgets with objects
Chews hard, steps hard, difficulty grading force of self or with objects
Clumsy
Chews and bites objects
Tends to be excessively rough
Walks on tiptoes
Balance issues
Avoids movements, play, or activities
Writes too hard, difficulty with grip
May affect academic performance
Trouble in crowds
Difficulty reading
ACTIVITIES SUGGESTIONS TO HELP PROVIDE VALUABLE INPUT THROUGH THE PROPRIOCEPTIVE SENSORY SYSTEM
These activities will involve weight bearing, resistance, lifting, cardiovascular, and deep pressure; all engage the Proprioceptive Sensory System. This system (which does not act in isolation) is generally so much fun to work with, the associated activities are endless and the effects are so positive. Proprioceptive input can be very calming, alerting (for those that need to increase attention and learning), contribute to emotional and behavior regulation, and decrease stress and anxiety.
Trampoline
Digging
Playdough/Clay
Yoga
Playground equipment
Hopscotch
Bike riding
Hill and Rock climbing
Kart wheels
Building a fort
Gardening
Stirring batter
Tug of war
Skipping
Sac races, three legged races
Swimming
Climb a tree
Playing twister
Pogo stick
Jump rope
Put many activities together in a fun filled obstacle course
Obstacle courses that involve crawling, jumping, walking, wheelbarrow, climbing, etc.
Help to clean up by pushing, sweeping, yard work, etc.
Weighted resources, blankets, compression clothing, weighted vests, etc.
Large arm motions such as throwing, painting large vertical surfaces
Manipulation of toys such as legos, clay, coloring with crayons, knitting weaving
And so many more
**Again, always take note how certain activities affect your child. Look for what works and what may over stimulate. To calm your child, perform activities that are weight bearing and more static or slower paced such as yoga, tree climbing, planks, rock climbing, hiking, massage, and using weighted resources.
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