Supporting Different Sensory Processing Patterns

II. Supporting Different Sensory Processing Patterns

A. Overview of sensory avoiders, seekers, and under-responders

B. Strategies for addressing specific needs in different sensory domains

1. Visual 2. Auditory 3. Tactile 4. Vestibular 5. Proprioceptive

C. Importance of sensory diets for providing appropriate sensory input

II. Supporting Different Sensory Processing Patterns

This module focuses on understanding and supporting individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) by addressing their specific sensory needs in different sensory domains. It provides an overview of sensory avoiders, seekers, and under-responders and offers strategies to address their needs. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of sensory diets for providing appropriate sensory input.

A. Overview of Sensory Avoiders, Seekers, and Under-Responders:
This section provides a comprehensive understanding of the three main patterns of sensory processing difficulties: sensory avoiders, seekers, and under-responders. It explains that sensory avoiders are hypersensitive to sensory stimuli, seekers actively seek intense sensory experiences, and under-responders have difficulty registering or processing sensory input.

B. Strategies for Addressing Specific Needs in Different Sensory Domains:
This section delves into strategies to address the specific sensory needs of individuals in various sensory domains. It covers the following domains:

1. Visual: Strategies to create a visually supportive environment, such as reducing visual clutter, using visual schedules, and incorporating visual aids to enhance understanding and organization.
2. Auditory: Techniques to address auditory sensitivities or challenges, including controlling noise levels, using noise-canceling headphones, providing visual cues along with verbal instructions, and creating quiet areas for sensory breaks.
3. Tactile: Approaches to address tactile sensitivities or preferences, such as offering a range of textures and materials, using weighted or textured objects for calming or grounding, and gradually desensitizing individuals to touch.
4. Vestibular: Strategies to support individuals with vestibular difficulties, which involve movement and balance, including providing opportunities for controlled movement, such as swinging or rocking, and incorporating activities that engage the vestibular system.
5. Proprioceptive: Techniques for addressing proprioceptive needs, which involve body awareness and deep pressure input. This may include activities that provide deep pressure, such as weighted blankets, compression clothing, or engaging in activities that involve pushing, pulling, or heavy lifting.

C. Importance of Sensory Diets for Providing Appropriate Sensory Input:
This section emphasizes the significance of sensory diets in providing individuals with SPD with the right amount and type of sensory input to support their regulation and engagement. It explains that a sensory diet involves a personalized plan of sensory activities and strategies tailored to an individual’s sensory needs. It highlights the benefits of sensory diets in promoting self-regulation, attention, and overall well-being.

By understanding the different sensory processing patterns and implementing appropriate strategies, educators and caregivers can better support individuals with SPD in their daily lives and create an environment that caters to their specific sensory needs.