Occupational therapists help children succeed in meeting the daily occupations of childhood (play, school, and self-help skills). Most of the children referred to occupational therapy at Emerge demonstrate difficulties in processing sensory input. These children misinterpret everyday sensory information, such as touch, movement and sound. They may feel bombarded by the sensory world or seek out intense sensory experiences. This can lead to difficulties with motor coordination, social/emotional challenges, school difficulties, behavioral problems, poor self-esteem and other issues. The occupational therapists at Emerge have advanced training in assessing and treating sensory processing and sensory integration disorders. They use a child centered approach, selecting activities designed to give each child the ‘just-right’ challenge to facilitate developmental and/or behavioral change and promote positive self-esteem.
Click here for details about the Occupational Therapy Evaluation and Treatment sessions at Emerge
Here are some signs of sensory processing difficulties:
- Overly sensitive or under reactive to touch, movement, sights, or sounds
- Difficulty with behavioral and/or emotional regulation
- Easily overwhelmed
- Difficulty learning how to play or get along with other children
- Difficulty with everyday activities like eating, sleeping, brushing teeth or getting dressed
- Problems learning to color, cut, draw or write
- Difficulty transitioning from one activity or place to another
- Problems learning to walk, jump, skip, ride a bike or play sports