Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects the way the brain processes sensory information. Individuals with SPD may have difficulty with sensory integration, which means they struggle to receive, process, and respond to information from their senses. This can lead to challenges in everyday life, such as difficulty with social interactions, motor coordination, and emotional regulation.
What is Sensory Processing Disorder? Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurological condition that affects how the brain receives and responds to sensory information. The senses include the commonly known 5: touch, taste, smell, sight, and sound. Other sensory systems also include; vestibular (sense of head movement in space), proprioceptive (sensations from the muscles and joints in the body), and interoception (feedback from internal organs, e.g. hunger, thirst, other internal body signals/sensations). In individuals with SPD, the brain may overreact, underreact, or have an unusual response to these sensations. As a result, they may feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, or in pain when exposed to certain stimuli. Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder The symptoms of SPD can vary depending on the individual and the specific sensory system affected. Some common symptoms of SPD include:
The exact causes of SPD are not fully understood. Some research suggests that genetics may play a role, as SPD tends to run in families. Other factors that may contribute to SPD include prenatal exposure to toxins or trauma, premature birth, or a history of chronic ear infections. Treatment of Sensory Processing Disorder There is no cure for SPD, but there are several treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Some common treatments for SPD include:
0 Comments
Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) refers to a range of communication methods used by individuals who are unable to effectively communicate using traditional spoken language. This can include individuals with disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays, as well as individuals with speech and language disorders, such as severe apraxia of speech.
The goal of AAC is to provide individuals with the means to communicate their needs, wants, and thoughts, regardless of their ability to speak. There are a variety of AAC devices and technologies available, each designed to meet the specific needs and abilities of the individual.
Please reach out if you're interested in learning more, or wondering if this could be a good fit for your child. We are happy to help! Feeding therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals with difficulties related to feeding and eating. This can include difficulties with trying new foods (touching, smelling, texture differences, etc.), chewing, swallowing, and establishing healthy eating habits, among other things. Feeding therapy is designed to improve the ability to eat and drink, and to promote healthy growth and development.
Feeding therapy is accomplished through a variety of techniques and strategies, including exercises to improve oral motor skills, strategies for improving chewing and swallowing, and training in healthy eating habits. In some cases, feeding therapy may also involve working with a team of healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists, speech therapists, and dietitians. This multidisciplinary approach can help to address a range of feeding difficulties and ensure that individuals receive the most comprehensive and effective treatment possible. At Columbia Pediatric Therapy, we have both SLPs and OT's trained in feeding strategies, depending on the child's presentation. Referrals are made out of clinic for dietitians and other specialists, if needed. For children, feeding therapy can be especially important for addressing feeding difficulties that are impacting their growth and development. Children with feeding difficulties may have difficulty gaining weight, may struggle to eat a variety of foods, or may experience discomfort or distress when eating. Feeding therapy can help to address these difficulties and promote healthy growth and development. Feeding therapy is one of our favorites, as we hope to help children discover how enjoyable their relationship with food can be. Why is play important for speech and language skills?
Play is primarily how children learn. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (2007), play teaches children how to interact in their environment and promotes cognitive, motor, speech, language, and social emotional development. Play lets children practice language skills that they have learned and also expand on their vocabulary. When playing with your child, they hear the speech sounds you are using, which will help them refine their own speech sounds. How can I play with my child? Playing is important for children and often your child wants to play with you. Playing with your child promotes a closer relationship with you. Playing provides opportunities for you to model behaviors, problem solving skills, values, and real life situations. Here are some strategies when playing with your child:
Disclaimer: This website does not provide medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your pediatrician or other health care providers with any questions you have regarding medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking because of something you read on this site. Citations/Resources: https://www.theministryofparenting.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/The-Importance-of-Play-in-the-Development-of-Language-Skills.pdf What is teletherapy?
Teletherapy is using video technology to deliver speech and language services by connecting the clinician and client for treatment, assessment, and/or consultation. Both adults and children can participate in teletherapy. What is the difference between telepractice, teletherapy, telehealth, and telemedicine? There is no difference between telepractice, teletherapy, and telehealth. However, telemedicine is the practice of medicine using technology to deliver care. A physician will use telecommunications to deliver care at a distance to their patients. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association uses the phrase “telepractice” because not all services are being provided in healthcare settings. Why use telepractice? Research has shown that telepractice is as effective and equivalent to in-person therapy. Some benefits of telepractice include:
How does telepractice work? Telepractice uses video to connect your child and the clinician. A link will be sent to open the video to start the telepractice session. There are many different video sources that follow HIPAA regulations. How can I support my child during a telepractice session? As the parent/caregiver, you will be helping support your child during the telepractice session. Your therapist may provide parent coaching and guidance on how to use materials and how to prompt your child verbally or physically. Some helpful tips are:
At Columbia Pediatrics, we offer a flexible approach to our therapy sessions. Whether you are interested in teletherapy, in person therapy, or both, please contact us at (360) 989-7347. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
January 2023
Categories |
info@columbiapedstherapy.com
16703 SE McGillivray Blvd Suite 170 Vancouver, WA 98683 Phone: (360) 989-7347 Fax: 888-974-0252 |