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HomeResources and SupportA-Z resourcesSensory processing disorder

Sensory processing disorder

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Children and youth with sensory processing issues have trouble interpreting information from their senses (their brains misread or distort the information). So their reactions to everyday sensations can be either too strong, or not strong enough.

Below you will find a variety of resources to help you better understand, cope with and/or support someone with sensory processing disorder.

Books

Answers to questions teachers ask about sensory integration: including sensory processing disorder: forms, checklists, and practical tools for teachers and parents

Las Vegas, CA: Sensory Resources, 2005.

Provides easy-to-use set of checklists and other tools that will be invaluable to every teacher (and parent) who has children with sensory processing challenges. You'll find tried-and-true instructions for developing fine-motor, “organizing,” and motor-planning skills, and for providing an appropriate “Sensory Diet” that will benefit all your students.

Building bridges through sensory integration: therapy for children with autism and other pervasive developmental disorders 

Yack, Ellen. -- Arlington, TX: Future Horizons Inc., 2002.

Written by three occupational therapists, this book offers a combination of theory and strategies. It is a useful tool for those working with young children, but also broad enough to be adapted for older children and adults.

The Goodenoughs get in sync: a story for kids about the tough day when Filibuster grabbed Darwin's rabbit's foot and the whole family ended up in the doghouse: an introduction to sensory processing disorder and sensory integration 

Kranowitz, Carol Stock -- Las Vegas: Sensory Resources, 2004.

A tale of five family members, each with a different sensory processing challenge and their naughty dog Filibuster.

Living sensationally: understanding your senses

Dunn, Winnie – London: Jessica Kingsley, 2008.

The author identifies four major sensory types: Seekers; Bystanders; Avoiders and Sensors. Readers can use the questionnaire to find their own patterns and the patterns of those around them, and can benefit from practical sensory ideas for individuals, families and businesses.

Love, Jean: inspiration for families living with dysfunction of sensory integration 

Ayres, A. Jean -- Santa Rosa, CA: Crestport Press, 2004

Captured in previously unpublished correspondence written by sensory integration pioneer A. Jean Ayres to her nephew Philip Erwin, Love, Jean provides insight and inspiration to parents of children who have been diagnosed with dysfunction of sensory integration.

Meghan's world: the story of one girl's triumph over sensory processing disorder 

Renna, Diane M. -- Speonk, NY: Indigo Impressions, 2007.

Meghan's World was written to validate the feelings of children suffering with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and other disabilities/delays that often go side-by-side with SPD. This lets children and parents know that they are not alone, and that there are resources available to make their lives less stressful, more comfortable and happy.

Out-of-sync child: recognizing and coping with sensory processing disorder 

Kranowitz, Carol Stock -- New York: Penguin Group, 2005.

Sensory Processing Disorder is a common but frequently misdiagnosed problem in which the central nervous system misinterprets messages from the senses. It contains additional information on vision and hearing deficits, motor skill problems, nutrition and picky eaters, ADHA, autism, and other related disorders.

Out-of-sync child has fun: activities for kids with sensory processing disorder 

Kranowitz, Carol -- New York: Perigee Book, 2006.

Each activity in this inspiring and practical book is SAFE—Sensory-motor, Appropriate, Fun and Easy—to help develop and organize a child's brain and body. This book presents lively and engaging ways to bring fun and play to everyday situations.

Parenting a child with sensory processing disorder: a family guide to understanding & supporting your sensory-sensitive child 

Auer, Christopher R -- Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications Inc. 2006.

This book describes a range of activities that help strengthen family relationships, improve communication about the disorder, and deal with problem situations and conditions a child with SPD may encounter.

Sensory integration and self-regulation in infants and toddlers: helping very young children interact with their environment 

Williamson, Gordon G -- Washington, DC: Zero to three, 2001.
Written for a multidisciplinary audience of practitioners who support the development of infants and young children, it includes topics such as assessment and intervention approaches. 

Sensory processing disorder: simulations and solutions for parents, teachers and therapists [DVD]

Brack, Jenny Clark -- Shawnee Mission, KS: Autism Asperger Publishing Co. 2006.

This DVD presents basic information about sensory systems along with simple solutions for how to deal with sensory challenges both home and at school.

The sensory-sensitive child: practical solutions for out-of-bounds behavior 

Smith, Karen A -- New York: Harper Resource, 2004.

A child with sensory processing problems overreacts or underreacts to sensory experiences most of us take in stride. A busy classroom, new clothes, food smells, sports activities, even hugs can send such a child spinning out of control. This guide will help families start on a new path of empowerment

and success.

Sensory smarts: a book for kids with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders struggling with sensory integration problems 

Chara, Kathleen A -- London: Jessica Kingsley, 2004.

It offers real solutions and hope, such as a sensory sensitivity scale, a behavioral rating chart and a list of helpful organizations. With much of the book written from the perspective of a child, and including rich illustrations, this book encourages children to work with adults in overcoming their sensory difficulties.

Simple low-cost games and activities for sensorimotor learning: a sourcebook of ideas for young children including those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other learning differences 

Kurtz, Lisa A. -- London ; Philadelphia: Jessica Kingsley Publisher, 2014.

Using materials that are readily-available in most households or that can be purchased or homemade at a very low cost, these games and activities are appropriate for all children, including those with autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and other learning challenges. The book includes clear descriptions of how to carry out each activity, helpful illustrations, and ways to adapt activities according to the child's individual needs. In addition, a comprehensive reference guide to the activities enables easy searching for games suited to the development of particular skills.

Starting sensory integration therapy: fun activities that won't destroy your home or classroom! 

Arnwine, Bonnie. -- Arlington, TX: Future Horizons, 2007.

This book is for busy parents whose children are starting therapy. The author, who is the parent of a child with sensory processing disorder, has packed this book with fun activities, timesaving tips, and quick cleanup techniques.

Tools for tots: sensory strategies for toddlers and preschoolers 

Henry, Diana A -- Glendale, AZ: Henry OT Services, 2007.

Designed to provide parents with over-the-counter sensory tools to use to help their toddlers and preschoolers become more comfortable with and participate in daily activities. Provides help in dealing with acquiring social skills, change, eating habits, bath time and hygiene problems, dressing issues, and sleeping issues.

Understanding regulation disorders of sensory processing in children: management strategies for parents and professionals 

Reebye, Pratibha -- London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2008.

Children with regulation disorders of sensory processing struggle to regulate their emotions and behaviors in response to sensory stimulation. The author explains how to recognize this disorder and offers practical suggestions for parents.

Understanding sensory dysfunction: learning, development and sensory dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities and bipolar disorder 

Emmons, Polly Godwin -- London: Jessica Kingsley, 2005.

This comprehensive resource aims to help identify and address sensory dysfunction in children, using a range of practical strategies to help children reach their full potential at home, at school and in the community.

Websites

  • Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation
  • Regulatory-Sensory Processing Disorders – Dr. Michael Cheng
  • Sensory Processing Problems in Children and Youth – eMentalHealth.ca
  • Trouble dutraitement de l'information sensorielle (SPD) - Portail Enfance
  • Sensory Processing Disorder: Toby's Story - Children's Hospital of Philadelphia 
  • Working with the Child with Sensory Integration Disorder – Scholastic 

Fact sheets

Sensory processing disorder

You are free to copy and redistribute these materials in any medium or format. This work may not be used for commercial purposes. View the full Creative Commons license. 

Local contacts

  • Autism Society Ontario – Ottawa Chapter
    211 Bronson Avenue
    Ottawa, ON K1R 6H5
    613-230-6305
    ottawa@autismontario.com  
  • Children at Risk
    235 Donald Street, Suite 209
    Ottawa, ON K1K 1N1
    613-741-8255
    Fax: 613-741-5530 
    car@childrenatrisk.ca 

Disclaimer

These resources are for educational purposes only. If you have any questions, ask your health-care provider.

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