Challenges in Daily Activities
A. Meals and sensory smart food options
B. Toileting and supporting children during this time
C. Nap time and strategies for promoting comfort and relaxation
D. Gross motor activities and sensory smart equipment
V. Challenges in Daily Activities
This module addresses the challenges that individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) may encounter during various daily activities. It provides insights into the specific difficulties they may face and offers strategies to support their engagement, comfort, and success in these activities.
A. Meals and Sensory Smart Food Options:
This section focuses on challenges related to mealtime for individuals with SPD. It discusses sensory sensitivities or aversions to certain textures, tastes, smells, or temperatures of food. Strategies include offering a variety of sensory smart food options, gradually introducing new foods, providing visual supports or social stories about mealtime routines, and creating a calm and predictable environment during meals.
B. Toileting and Supporting Children During this Time:
This section addresses challenges related to toileting and hygiene routines. It discusses sensory sensitivities or difficulties with self-regulation during these activities. Strategies include creating a consistent toileting routine, using visual supports or social stories to explain the process, providing sensory supports such as adaptive seating or visual cues, and maintaining a calm and private environment.
C. Nap Time and Strategies for Promoting Comfort and Relaxation:
This section focuses on challenges related to nap time and rest periods. It discusses difficulties with sensory sensitivities or difficulties in transitioning to a restful state. Strategies include creating a calming and quiet environment, providing sensory supports such as weighted blankets or soft textures, incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or soothing music, and allowing for individualized sensory preferences for comfort during nap time.
D. Gross Motor Activities and Sensory-Smart Equipment:
This section highlights challenges related to gross motor activities and the use of sensory-smart equipment. It discusses difficulties in coordination, balance, body awareness, and motor planning. Strategies include providing clear instructions and demonstrations, breaking tasks into smaller steps, offering visual supports or schedules, and incorporating sensory breaks or sensory input through the use of appropriate equipment.
By addressing the challenges specific to daily activities and implementing strategies tailored to the needs of individuals with SPD, educators and caregivers can create a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes their comfort, participation, and independence in everyday routines.