Occupational Therapy may Benefit Autistic Kids

According to a new study, using the principles of sensory integration (OT-SI) provides better outcome on parent-identified goals than standard care.

A panel of researchers used sensory integration strategies, a form of treatment that is frequently requested by parents. This intervention identifies the type of sensory difficulties and then designs playful activities to help make sense of the sensation. Typical sensations, which are perceived as distracting or distressing for children with autism, were found to improve their ability to participate fully in everyday activities including eating, dressing, learning and play activities.

The researchers suggest that OT-SI therapist might work with the child in a large ball pit to decrease tactile sensitivity and improve body awareness. Importantly, the therapy is playful and the child is actively engaged. OT-SI therapy for autism is based on the premise that difficulty interpreting sensory information

The study is published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

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