Sensory Processing Overview and Sensory Processing Intervention Strategies to Support Early Intervention Children and Families

This session will open with an overview of Sensory Processing including a lecture on our 7 senses (5 plus vestibular and proprioceptive systems) and potential red flags for sensory processing disorder within each sensory system. Next, there will be a discussion on the developmental pyramid chart demonstrating sensory processing as the foundation for development of more complex skills that lead to cognition and learning. Next, there will be a discussion on the three categories observed within Sensory Processing Disorder including Sensory Modulation, Sensory Discrimination, and Sensory-Motor based disorders. We will then cover Sensory Modulation in depth with a lecture on the 4 Sensory Patterns based on Winnie Dunn's Model; common sensory behaviors and patterns observed within the 4 sensory patterns, and specific intervention strategies to address the sensory needs of each sensory pattern. Next, there will be a lecture on how to change the arousal levels of our clients at the beginning of each therapy session along with a list of activities/strategies to calm the body. Finally, attendees will be provided with an Occupational Therapy 5 Minute Screener that can be provided to EI families who may have concerns regarding their child.