Archive for the ‘sensory processing disorder’ Category

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ASD and Sensory Sensitivities

Tuesday, March 17th, 2009

This is certainly not news to those who work with young ASD children on sensory processing skills. The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders published research stating that young autistic children experience specific sensory sensitivities with regards to tactile input, taste, smell and auditory filtering when compared to other children with different developmental disabilities. The researchers recommend that these differences are considered as specific symptoms in young children with autism.

It still leaves the question – is sensory processing disorder a diagnosis or a symptom of other disabilities?? In my non expert opinion, this research study is a score for the theory that sensory sensitivities are a symptom and not a disorder by itself. Any comments?

Reference: Lisa D. Wiggins1, Diana L. Robins, Roger Bakeman1 and Lauren B. Adamson (2009) Brief Report: Sensory Abnormalities as Distinguishing Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders in Young Children Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders Published online March 13, 2009 doi 10.1007/s10803-009-0711-x

Posted in autism, pediatric occupational therapy, pediatric physical therapy, sensory processing disorder | 1 Comment »

Purposeful Hyperactivity, ADHD and Sensory Diet activities

Saturday, March 14th, 2009

Recent research in Abnormal Child Psychology reports on a study of 12 boys with ADHD were compared to 11 typically developing boys. All of the boys ages 8-12 years old wore actigraphs on their wrists and ankles during working memory tasks. The research indicated that all children moved more during working memory tasks but the boys with ADHD moved significantly more that the typically developing children. The researchers concluded that excessive movement in boys with ADHD may have a functional purpose during working memory tasks.

This is some great research to support sensory diet activities in the classroom. You can explain to teachers that movement may help the children to accomplish working memory tasks. Here is where theraband around desk chairs, swinging foot rests, balls, and other movement ideas can be helpful additions to the classroom. Reinforce the idea with teachers that by forcing any child to sit perfectly still during certain tasks may actually inhibit working memory.

On 4/9/09 Time Magazine printed an article about the previously mentioned study entitled Kids With ADHD May Learn Better By Fidgeting. Worth a read if interested in this topic.

Reference: Rapport, M, Bolden, J, Kofler, M et al (2008) Hyperactivity in Boys with Attenteion-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Ubiquitous Core Symptom or Manefestation of Working Memory Deficits? J Abnorm Child Psychol DOI 10.1007/s10802-008-9287-8

Posted in ADHD, pediatric occupational therapy, pediatric physical therapy, sensory processing disorder | 3 Comments »

Sensory Friendly Films

Monday, March 2nd, 2009

The Autism Society of America and AMC Entertainment are now offering movie showings in certain cities specifically for children with sensory differences. Basically, at specific times, movies will be shown with the sounds turned down, lights up and children are allowed to move around and even dance! This is an AWESOME idea.

Posted in autism, sensory processing disorder | No Comments »

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