Sensory over-responsivity in kids shows up in classrooms every day. A student who covers their ears at the sound of a pencil sharpener, refuses to wear certain fabrics, or becomes distressed by cafeteria noise may be experiencing more than a passing preference. These strong, negative reactions to everyday sensory input affect a meaningful portion of […]
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affects how the brain interprets sensory information, making it difficult for individuals to respond appropriately to the world around them. For some, certain stimuli like loud noises or bright lights can feel overwhelming, while others might seek out intense sensory experiences, craving more stimulation than the average person. SPD is a […]
At the start of the school year, during special events or holidays or anytime after a school break, students may have a difficult time adjusting to a new routine, any changes in the classroom environment or even different students. Learning how to deal with sensory overload at school is important for all educational staff and […]
Autism Research published a review to evaluate the effectiveness of Ayres Sensory Integration for children with autism. Using the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Standards for Evidence-based Practices in Special Education, a systemic review was conducted from 2006 to 2017 on Ayres Sensory Integration for children with autism. Methodology of the Review on Ayres Sensory Integration for Children […]
If you are a school-based Occupational Therapist, teacher, or a parent of a child with sensory processing difficulties, then you often ponder the question when a child “misbehaves” was it due to sensory concerns or behavior. This FREE sensory versus behavior checklist can act as a guide when you observe a child’s behavior (download at […]
Sensory Processing Disorder, Daily Functioning, and ADHD The European Journal of Paediatric Neurology published research on sensory processing disorder, daily functioning, and ADHD. The study included 77 children, ages 8-11 years old (37 with ADHD and 39 typical controls). Each child was evaluated using the Conner’s Parent Rating Scale-Revised: Short Form (CPRS–R:S), the Short Sensory Profile […]
Ileana S. McCaigue, OTR/L is a nationally certified/ registered and licensed Occupational Therapist, author, program developer, holistic clinician and educator with 40 years of experience. Her professional career and expertise include a continuum of care. These range from the neonatal intensive care unit to pediatric concerns in the home, school and community for developmental delays, […]
Renowned Occupational Therapist, Ileana S. McCaigue, OTR/L and author of Typical Classroom Sensory-Based Problem Behaviors & Suggested Therapeutic Interventions and Autism Sleeps™, has written a new book entitled Taming Idiopathic Toe Walking: A Treatment Guide for Parents and Therapists. This new book provides a non-invasive, efficient and effective sensory treatment strategy for children and adolescents that display atypical toe […]
After reading a thought provoking blog post from Christopher Alterio,OTR, on Deconstructing the myth of clothing sensitivity as a ‘sensory processing disorder’, it really made me think about how we talk to parents as pediatric therapists. Not just about clothing sensitivity or other sensory sensitivities but about any concern that a parent comes to discuss with […]
