Island Therapies of Suffolk, L.L.P.
About Us
What is Sensory Integration?

Sensory integration has become a common word to describe what is actually three things:

Sensory integration is a normal process that develops in all people. It is the ability to take in sensory information from our environment and our own bodies, organize that information in the nervous system, and use that information to interact in and learn from our environment.

Sensory integration dysfunction is the disorder that occurs when that normal process of sensory integration is inefficient. Many people with sensory integration dysfunction have difficulties in learning and behavior. Sensory integration dysfunction (DSI) can manifest in several different ways.

Sensory integration treatment is a treatment approach designed to use enhanced sensory intake to facilitate the normal process of sensory integration. Most therapists who are trained in providing sensory integration are occupational therapists but some are physical therapists and speech therapists. Sensory integration treatment is part of a therapist’s skills and there are no "sensory integration therapists" that are not previously trained and licensed in their respective disciplines.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS SENSORY INTEGRATION DYSFUNCTION?
You can have your child evaluated by a therapist who is certified to administer and interpret the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT). Not all children are appropriate for this test due to age levels and developmental levels. A certified therapist has many other tools and assessments to use to assess sensory integration dysfunction in any individual. Island Therapies occupational therapists can do these evaluations.

WHEN DID SENSORY INTEGRATION THEORY DEVELOP?
Dr. A. Jean Ayres, OT, developed the theory and treatment for children with sensory integration dysfunction in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Many occupational therapists today have added to her information through research and treatment techniques and many more are trained to provide treatment.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT SENSORY INTEGRATION?
Island Therapies provides courses for parents, teachers, and therapists periodically. A small packet of information is available from Island Therapies for a nominal fee. Sensory Integration International is an organization dedicated to sensory integration. The website is:
www.sensoryint.com. There are many other websites to find by entering sensory integration into your search engine.

There are several books about sensory integration that are helpful as well:

  • The Out of Sync Child & The Out of Sync Child Has Fun by Carol Stock Kranowitz, MA


  • Too Loud, Too Bright, Too Fast, Too Tight by Sharon Heller, Ph.D


  • Sensory Integration and the Child by A. Jean Ayres


  • Including SI for Parents by Jeanne S. Ganz, which is available at Amazon.com, or you can obtain it by writing to:


  • Occupational Therapy Strategies
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    Hauppauge, NY 11788.
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