WHAT IS SENSORY INTEGRATION AND WHY IS IT IMPORTNAT?
Sensory Integration is the way our mind registers, modulates and discriminates sensations and then produces the correct response to the environment. Simply stated, sensory integration involves how our brain takes in, sorts out, and reacts to information from our surroundings.
Our brains need to integrate sensations efficiently so that we can do the things we need to do in our everyday life. An example of a successful sensory integration is hearing the sound of a bee and immediately brushing it away to avoid being stung.
Sensory integration helps the brain build important nerve connections. These connections enhance language development, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving skills, and social interactions. This is important for successful growth and development in all aspects of life. Sensory integration also helps us to develop and enhance our critical thinking skills, self-regulation techniques and memory formation.
A great example is the relationship between sensory integration and meal time with baby:
What is this? What does it smell like? What does it feel like?
How does it taste? Do I like the texture?
Do I want more? Yes or no?
Are you looking for play-based activities to further develop your child's sensory skills and goals? Do you want to develop their ability to handle certain situations efficiently and effectively? Busy Little Learners is an innovative early childhood program that follows a play-based & multi-sensory approach to teaching & learning. Our curriculum will foster your child’s self-regulation, sensory development and creativity through PLAY. Your child will create, investigate and explore through the use of bright colors, silly scents & fun textures. Sensory Together offers play-based curriculum programs, learning activities and sensory kits for a healthy sensory lifestyle and success in learning and beyond.
PLAY IS THE WAY
References:
Parham, L. D., & Mailloux, Z. (1996). Sensory integration. In J. Case-Smith, A. S. Allen, & P. N.
Pratt (Eds.), Occupational therapy for children.