Georgia PBS Interventions - Florida's Positive Behavior Support ...

Sensory IntegrationChildren and adults with autism spectrum disorder may well have a dysfunctional sensory system. Nowand then one or more senses are either over- or under-reactive to stimulation. Such sensorytribulations may be the underlying reason for such behaviors as spinning, rocking, and hand-flapping. Itis believed that the obstacle stems from neurological dysfunction in the central nervous system--thebrain. As described by individuals with autism, sensory integration techniques, such as deep pressuretouchescan facilitate attention and awareness, and reduce overall arousal.Ideas for Sensory IntegrationAll of these activities would be performed based on the child’s likes and dislikes depending on theirsensory needs they may need to be repeated hourly or daily.Deep Pressure• Wrap the child in a thin mat with their head sticking out (like a burrito)• Roll a weighted medicine ball up and down their back, backs of legs, down arms while the childlies face down on a mat.• Wrap the child in a weighted blanket.• Let the child use a heavy massager for short periods of time.Light Pressure• Rub lightly on the arm with a hospital scrub brush going up and down all the fingers. Run up anddown legs.• Run a feather duster over bare arms and legs.• Tie several satin ribbons on an embroidery loop and run them up and down bare arms and legs.• Let the child use a light massager for short periods of time.Pro-prioceptive• Jumping on a small indoor trampoline (available at Wal-Mart for approximately $40)• Walking on textured half disks with bare feet• Textured sandalsResources• Songames for Sensory Integration by Aubrey Lande, Bob Wiz, and friends available fromSensory Resources available at www.amazon.com This is a great resource with activemovements matched to songs that teach.Positive Interventions and Effective Strategies Riffel -© 2005 - 88 -