Sensory Integration Education

Each month we take a look at the latest Sensory Integration and Sensory Processing research and findings.

Improving Participation in Toileting Routines in a Child with Functional Constipation: A Case Study Using the Integrated Sensory Toileting® Approach

This new paper discusses the effect of an Integration Sensory Toileting approach® as an intervention for a 3-year-old child with functional constipation. Following the intervention, an improvement in sensory reactivity and participation in toileting routines was noticed.

Sensory Processing in Typically Developing Toddlers with and Without Sleep Problems

This new study investigated sensory processing patterns in typically developing toddlers, with and without sleep problems. The researchers used the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile 2 for the data collection in the study and found that participants who had difficulty with sleeping presented with significant differences in low registration, sensory sensitivity, and sensory avoiding patterns compared to their peers who had no sleep difficulties.

Sensory Symptoms Associated with Autistic Traits and Anxiety Levels in Children Aged 6–11 Years

This new study investigated sensory processing patterns and anxiety in autistic children aged 6-11 years. The researchers found a strong positive correlation between auditory and olfactory sensory processing challenges and anxiety in study participants.

Motor Skills and Capacities in Developmental Dyslexia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

This new systematic review investigated motor skills in children and young people (age 6-18 years) with dyslexia. The researchers found that compared to peers without dyslexia, children and young people with dyslexia presented with lower performances in multiple motor skills and capacities, such as handwriting, visual-motor integration, balance, coordination, dexterity, and stability.

Examination of Sensory Reception and Integration Abilities in Children with and without Prader-Willi Syndrome

This recent study investigated postural control in children aged 8-11 years with and without Prader-Willi Syndrome. The researchers found that compared to typically developing children, children with Prader-Willi Syndrome presented with sensory processing differences in the somatosensory and vestibular systems that contributed to lower postural control.

Attention and Sensory Integration for Gait in Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This new study investigated gait patterns in autistic adults aged 19-39 years. The researchers found that in comparison to neurotypical study participants, autistic participants demonstrated differences in gait patterns possibly influenced by their processing of somatosensory information.

Increasing Swim Instructors' Perceived Knowledge of Sensory-Based Strategies When Coaching Children Who May Have Sensory Differences

This recent Capstone Doctoral Project by Gabrielle Palmer focussed on swimming instruction and instructors' knowledge of sensory-based strategies when coaching children who may have sensory differences. This research identified a need for sensory strategies to help children with sensory differences feel more comfortable and be better able to engage in the activity.

The Positive Impact of Identity-affirming Mental Health Treatment for Neurodivergent Individuals

This new article discusses the importance of identity-affirming treatment for neurodivergent individuals when receiving mental health treatment.

Sensory Responsivity and Its Relation to Alexithymia, Social Processing and Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviour in Autistic Children

This new study investigated the association between sensory processing differences and alexithymia in autistic children and young people aged 4-17 years. The researchers found higher levels of sensory differences and alexithymia in autistic study participants in comparison to non-autistic participants. Over-responsivity was the dominant predictor of alexithymia in this study.

Evaluating Handwriting in Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD): Temporal, Spatial, Pressure and Grip-force Measures

This new study investigated handwriting in children with DCD aged 7-11 years. The researchers found that compared to a control group of children without DCD, study participants with DCD showed differences in handwriting speed, sizing of letters and pen grip force. The significant difference in pen grip force could suggest differences in proprioceptive sensory processing.