What is sensory integration?
Sensory integration, simply put, is the ability to take in information through senses (touch, movement, smell, taste, vision, and hearing), to put it together with prior information, memories, and knowledge stored in the brain, and to make a meaningful response. A. Jean Ayres, Ph.D., was an occupational therapist who first researched and described the theories and frame of reference which we now call sensory integration. She states: "Good sensory processing enables all the impulses to flow easily and reach their destination quickly. Sensory integrative dysfunction is a sort of `traffic jam' in the brain. Some bits of sensory information get `tied up in traffic,' and certain parts of the brain do not get the sensory information they need to do their jobs."

Common classifications of sensory integrative disorders are:

• Decreased Discrimination of Vestibular and Proprioceptive Information

• Decreased Discrimination of Tactile Information

• Somatodyspraxia

• Impaired Bilateral Motor Coordination

• Tactile Defensiveness

• Gravitational Insecurity

• Projected Action Sequences

This is an overview of some of the ways sensory integrative problems manifest themselves. Any particular child may show only a few of the characteristics described and some characteristics could be caused by something other than sensory integrative dysfunction. Parents and professionals are advised to look at the pattern of behaviors and the "big picture" of how the problems interfere with the child's function in his or her play, physical and emotional development, and ability to develop independence. Any child who is suspected of having a sensory integrative disorder should be evaluated by a professional (usually an occupational or a physical therapist).

The Sensory Integration Unit at SPASTN
It is a well equipped state-of-the-art facility for treating children with sensory integration problems. An Occupational therapist provides therapy to the child on a one-to-one basis as well as in a group. Testing tools required for assessment of hand function, perceptual ability, bilateral integration, vestibular function, praxis and tactile function are available. Measures have been taken to provide stimuli to various senses based on need, like modifying textures of the floor and wall, a controlled lighting arrangement for modified visual input, swings of different shapes and surfaces without a compromise on safety. Other services offered include early identification and early intervention, sensory diet, training programmes for physio / occupational therapists.