Sensory Integration Education

Each month we take a look at the latest SI research and research of topical interest - this month, we have a focus on autism, sensory sensitivities and self regulation.

The Contribution of Atypical Sensory Processing to Executive Dysfunctions, Anxiety and Quality of Life of Children with ADHD

This recent study investigated dysregulation in children with ADHD. The researchers found that sensory processing differences impact on execution function and anxiety in children with ADHD and, as a result, influence their quality of life.

From ‘One Big Clumsy Mess’ to ‘a Fundamental Part of My Character’: Autistic Adults’ Experiences of Motor Coordination

This recent qualitative study investigated the experience of motor coordination difficulties from the viewpoint of 17 autistic adults. An association between sensory processing differences and motor coordination difficulties was found, with participants indicating that "when they experienced sensory overload it became more difficult to concentrate and perform movement."

Linking Vestibular, Tactile, and Somatosensory Rhythm Perception to Language Development in Infancy

This new study investigated the role that vestibular, tactile, and somatosensory rhythm perception plays in language development in infancy. The findings from this study suggest a possible link between performances in the rhythmic and linguistic tasks that is due to a composite pattern rather than a value influenced by developmental changes.

Sensory Alterations in Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

This new study investigated sensory processing differences in individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The researchers found changes in sensory regions and patterns of connectivity that affect how individuals with PTSD process sensory information.

Rhythm and Movement Delivered by Teachers Supports Self-regulation Skills of Preschool-aged Children in Disadvantaged Communities: A Clustered RCT

This recent study investigated the effectiveness of a rhythm and movement intervention delivered by teachers in improving the self-regulation skills in children aged 3-4 years. The study found that this intervention improved children's ability to self-regulate and demonstrated the value of training teachers to support children through the use of a school programme.

Exploring the Associations among Chinese Kindergartners between Academic Achievement and Behavioral, Cognitive and Emotional Self-Regulation

This study explored the association between academic achievement and behavioural, cognitive and emotional self-regulation in preschool-aged children. The researchers found that in study participants, cognitive self-regulation followed by behavioural and emotional self-regulation were strong predictors of numeracy.

The Impact of Premature Birth on Multisensory Processes in Very Preterm Schoolchildren

This new study investigated visual and auditory sensory processing differences in children who were born before 32 weeks of gestational age. The researchers found that study participants presented with slower response speed to multisensory tasks in comparison to participants who were not pre-term. They recommend that supporting preterm children's sensory needs and development should be part of early intervention.

Shared and Distinct Biological Mechanisms for Anxiety and Sensory Over-responsivity in Youth with Autism Versus Anxiety Disorders

This recent study investigated sensory over-responsivity (SOR) and anxiety symptoms in young people with anxiety disorders, Autistic young people, and typically developing (TD) young people. One of the key findings was that both Autistic young people and young people with Anxiety showed hyperreactivity in a number of brain regions compared to the TD group when exposed to mildly aversive auditory and tactile stimuli.

Calming Effects of Repetition in Music for Children with Sensory Sensitivities: Findings from Two Experimental Studies

This new study investigated the effects of repetition in music to help children who are over-responsive to sensory input feel calmer and more regulated. The overall study consisted of two experimental studies, and the researchers found that exposure to live music led to a reduction in anxiety in study participants and had a calming effect. In terms of repetition, it was found that repetition helped children to engage more and increased their enjoyment levels of the music.

Motor Problems in Autism: Co-occurrence or Feature?

This recent paper discussed motor problems in autistic individuals. The authors recommend that regardless of the cause of motor difficulties, it is important to recognise and increase awareness of motor problems in autism and that a clear assessment and intervention pathway is required.

Does Executive Function Affect Children's Peer Relationships More than Emotion Understanding? A Longitudinal Study Based on Latent Growth Model

This new study researched the impact of emotion understanding and executive function on children's peer relationships. The researchers found that executive function played a more significant role in facilitating positive peer relationships than emotion understanding in a sample of preschool children.

Properties of Imagined Experience Across Visual, Auditory, and Other Sensory Modalities

This new study investigated the properties of imagined experience across sensory modalities. The researchers found that of all sensory modalities, visual and auditory mental imagery were most common in study participants.

On the Relationship Between Emotion Regulation Difficulties and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms During Treatment: A Test of Reciprocity

This new study investigated the relationship between emotion regulation and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The researchers found evidence of a reciprocal relationship between emotion regulation and PTSD, with emotion regulation difficulties predicting PTSD outcomes during treatment.