How OTs Help Kids With Sensory Needs, And What You Can Do For Them

September 19, 2022 Uneeb Khan Occupational Therapy, Sensory Needs

Sensories are a big part of what makes us human. Some people have more sensitive senses than others and can often find the experience overwhelming, especially in noisy places like school. Read on to learn how Occupational Therapists can help kids with sensory needs in school, as well as ways you can help foster their comfort at home.

Introduction

OTs are a wonderful resource for children with special needs. They can help kids with communication, mobility, and sensory needs. OTs also offer children opportunities to learn new skills and make friends. Here are some ideas on how you can help your child with special needs receive the most benefit from an OT visit.

If your child has a communication or mobility need, it’s important to encourage him or her to communicate with the best occupational therapy in Pitampura. You can help by using facial expressions and body language to indicate what you want the OT to do. For example, if you want your child to sit in a particular way, point at the spot and use your facial expression to show that you want them to sit down.

If your child has a sensory need, it’s important to provide plenty of variety when it comes to activities. The OT will help you find activities that are appropriate for your child’s needs. It’s also helpful to keep a list of things that are calming for your child. For example, some children like soft music while others prefer quiet voices. You can also bring along toys that are calming for your children such as a stuffed animal or blanket.

Benefits of OTs for Children with Sensory Needs

Some kids have trouble coping with the sensory overload that comes with being a kid. This can make them feel overwhelmed and out of control, which can lead to problems at home, at school, and even in their social lives. OTs can help these kids by providing them with support and training in managing their senses. Here are some of the benefits of OT services for children with sensory needs:

– OTs can help kids learn how to manage their emotions. When kids have trouble coping with their surroundings, it can lead to anxiety and other stress-related problems. OTs can teach them how to deal with these feelings in constructive ways, which will improve their overall mental health.

– OTs can help kids learn how to communicate better. Kids who have trouble communicating often find it hard to deal with their emotions and cope with daily life challenges. OTs can help them learn how to express themselves clearly, which will make life easier for everyone around them.

– OTs can teach kids how to socialize effectively. Kids who struggle to communicate often find it hard to build relationships with other people. OT services can help these children learn how to interact successfully with others, which will improve their social skills and confidence levels

Types of Sensory Services

If you have a child with a sensory need, you know how daunting it can be to find the right services and accommodations. OTs can help make your life a little easier by providing specialized services for kids with various sensory needs. Here are some of the most common types of sensory needs and what OTs can do to help:

1. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): SPD is a condition that affects how the brain processes information from the five senses. This can lead to problems with attention, concentration, and hyperactivity. OTs can help children with SPD by providing specialized services such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy.

2. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a condition that affects how a person pays attention and reacts to stimuli. Children with ADHD may have difficulty staying focused on tasks or completing them on time. OTs can help children with ADHD by providing accommodations such as individualized educational programs or special equipment for classrooms.

3. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): ASD is a spectrum of disorders that affect social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. OTs can help children with ASD by providing accommodations such as group therapies or special equipment for classroom activities.

Disadvantages of OTs for Children with Sensory Needs

OTs are often seen as a savior for children with sensory needs, but this is not always the case. Here are some of the disadvantages of using OTs for children with sensory needs:

OTs can be expensive.
Occupational Therapy may not be available in all areas and may not be able to meet all of a child’s needs.
OTs may not have the same experience or training as a therapist or pediatricians.

OTs and School/Behavioral Issues in Schools

OTs have a long history of helping children with various sensory needs. They can help with anxiety and mood disorders, as well as provide relief from symptoms such as ADHD, autism, and sensory processing disorder. Occupational therapy treatment can also help children with disabilities better tolerate school and social settings. Here are some tips to get the most out of your OT visits:

-Schedule regular visits to break the monotony of school. This will help promote a sense of security for kids, who may feel more comfortable when they know their OT is there for them.

-Make sure to bring your child’s teacher and school officials along to appointments so that they can all see how OT services are benefiting the student. This will show the school that you are committed to ensuring your child’s success in school.

-Encourage your child to ask their OT any questions that they may have about their symptoms or treatment plan. This will help ensure that the OT has a good understanding of your child’s specific needs and can provide the best possible care.

Conclusion

One of the most common accommodations that children with sensory needs need is extra time to complete tasks. OTs can help kids with sensory needs by providing them with targeted assistance and support so they can complete their tasks as efficiently as possible. In order to best serve your child, it is important to be aware of what signs indicate that your child may need extra time, and then work together with an OT to develop a plan that will work for both you and your child.