Understanding Your Child

Sensory integration is the process by which the brain organizes and interprets sensory information from the body and environment. This neurological process allows us to use our bodies effectively within the environment.

Sensory Integration Dysfunction (also known as Sensory Processing Disorder) occurs when this process is not working like it should. Think again about the above examples. You touch a hot pan, and it does not feel hot, so you don't know you are being burned. Your apple tastes bitter and is rough like gravel. You try to step over the bottle on the sidewalk, but you lose your balance and fall down. You hear all the sounds of your house. The clock sounds like an elephant stomping, the ceiling fan sounds like a tornado blowing and the dishwasher is as loud as a freight train. You can't stand restaurants because you hear everyone talking, the clatter of silverware, and people are moving all around you. You are unable to concentrate on anything. You hate crowds with all the bumping, and shouting and all those smells make you feel sick.

THIS is dysfunction. The brain is not processing the information from the senses in an efficient manner. Imagine brushing your hair with a brush made out of glass shards, scraping across your scalp. Someone touches your arm, and it feels scorched. Imagine the fabric of your shirt prickling so much, you want to scream and rip it off. This is it.

Sensory Integration Dysfunction has many symptoms, all originating with the senses. Too much or not enough is the general rule. This disorder interferes with the normal living and learning in daily life.