Sensory Integration

What is Sensory Integration?

Children typically develop sensory integration abilities in the course of regular childhood activities. The ability to respond to sensation in an adaptive manner and motor plan is a natural process. Yet, if this process is disordered, problems in learning, behavior or development may occur.

There continues to be indication that some children have sensory dysfunction in the areas of touch, movement, smell, taste, hearing and/or vision. These senses may be either highly responsive (hypersensitive) or low to respond (hyposensitive) to stimulation. Our senses help us to understand our world and enhance development. If there are problems with sensory processing, the problems will impact the mastery of fine and gross motor skills and social/emotional development.