Just as a computer is made to process data, the human brain is made to process sensory data into meaningful information. The brain is designed to be able to process classroom sounds into instructions, written numbers into equations, and even sights along a roadway into traffic signs. The brain is designed to simultaneously integrate these types of sensory information and compute their meaning, given a particular context. e.g. A light moving touch on the arm while sitting on a blanket on a sunny day at a picnic might be computed as a bug on your arm, while a light moving touch on the arm while at a nighttime party might be computed as an invitation to dance.
Sensory integration disorders impact learning and social behavior. When left untreated, the behaviors of children with sensory integration disorders tend to show problems such as attention deficit, learning disability, behavior issues, dyslexia, and other vision difficulties that are often related to difficulties with sensory integration.
For example, when the ability to process sounds is impaired, the child might be able to hear, but not necessarily understand speech so following instructions may be difficult. for some childern the issue might be visual. A child who is able to see, may not necessarily be able to recognize common objects and associate them with their function. Sometimes children may not be able to judge how close they are to objects and frequently stumble or trip. When the ability to process touch is effected the child may be able to appreciate touch to some degree, but they might not necessarily understand how to touch. Grip may be too hard, too light, or too rough. Broken toys, and difficulties with safe play may be the result. When the ability to process taste or even touch inside the mouth is a problem, typically the child is a very picky eater. Since healthy nutrition impacts mood, activity level, and attention, learning will be affected as well.
Children with sensory integration disorders can be helped through treatment that is provided by a therapist who is trained in use of the specialized equipment and techniques needed to address the underlying sensory processing issues.
