What strategies can improve transitions in school for children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

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From the Research

Strategies to Improve Transitions in School for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

Some strategies that can improve transitions in school for children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) include:

  • Providing a multisensory environment, which may be beneficial in certain conditions or with certain populations 1
  • Using alternate seating, which may help children with SPD to better focus and participate in class 1
  • Implementing sound amplification systems, which can help children with SPD to better hear and understand instructions 1
  • Avoiding the use of weighted vests, as there is no evidence to support their effectiveness in improving transitions for children with SPD 1
  • Educating school staff and peers about SPD and its effects on children, which can help to promote understanding and inclusivity 2
  • Assessing the individual needs of each child with SPD and developing personalized strategies to support their transitions 1

Factors that May Contribute to SPD

Research suggests that certain factors, such as premature birth and delivery by caesarean section, may be associated with an increased risk of SPD in children 3

  • Children born prematurely or by caesarean section may be more likely to experience sensory processing difficulties, which can impact their ability to transition smoothly in school 3
  • Understanding these factors can help educators and healthcare professionals to better support children with SPD and develop effective strategies to improve their transitions 3

The Importance of Multisensory Integration

Multisensory integration, or the ability to combine and process different types of sensory information, is important for children with SPD to navigate transitions in school 4

  • Children with SPD may have difficulty integrating multisensory information, which can lead to challenges with speech perception and other cognitive tasks 4
  • Providing opportunities for multisensory integration, such as using visual and auditory cues, can help children with SPD to better process and understand information 4

References

1
Research

Evidence Synthesis and Clinical Recommendations for Supporting School Students With Sensory Processing Challenges: A Rapid Review.

The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association, 2024

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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