Sensory Integration Therapy

[lou031205]

DD's OT said that SIT was thought to be very effective in the '70s, so you will see on some Statements 'must have 1hr SIT per week', but that actually, it doesn't work & you can't 'fix' a child by SIT. More important is incorporating sensory modulation opportunities throughout the day in the classroom, like meals. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & snacks. So her statementing report will reflect this. Does anyone know anything about SIT or other sensory measures?

Our OT used the term 'sensory integration dysfunction' IIRC but actually the ideas and sensory diet are more about modulation on a regular basis. I tend to get confused with the terminology and definatley not an expert parent in this field yet! Ds does not have it on his statement but is in sn school who are more aware of needs. I was recommended a couple of books 'Sensory perceptual issues in autism and aspergers syndrome' by Olga Bogdashi, and 'Too loud too bright too fast too tight' by Sharon Heller. Both are rather heavy reading. My favorite is 'The out of synch child has fun' by Carol Kranowitz as it has ideas for home use.
Ds (can be both sensory seeking and acutely over sensitive to touch/smell etc) so we do things through out the day - it is part of our way of life. Ds likes being quashed (he does this himself by hiding behind the door or sofa or will ask to be sat on) so to reduce his need to bear hug poor innocent strangers I cuddle with a cushion between us, and wrap him tightly in a blanket/ duvet. Rolling in a rug or mat was suggested but we have not got on so well (I am not physically up to it at present). We do skin rubbing and are building up to brushing to reduce touch over sensitivity. Ds has a bean bag and wobble cushions (home and school)as he needs movement to think.

My ds does an SIT programme at his m/s school. They do a series of exercises which are varied according to the needs of the individual child.

I can only go on personal experience but from what I've seen it's made a big difference to ds. It hasn't solved all of his sensory issues but he is a lot calmer and more alert these days. The school also runs trial periods where they temporarily stop the programme and monitor the results.