If you’re a parent trying to support your child’s development, especially if they have sensory processing challenges, it helps to understand the core ideas behind sensory integration. These concepts explain how your child’s brain takes in information, makes sense of it, and then responds in daily life.
Let’s explore two of the most important building blocks of sensory integration: the neurological process and the adaptive response.
1. Neurological Process: How the Brain Handles Sensory Information
Sensory integration starts in the nervous system—specifically, in the brain. Throughout the day, your child is constantly receiving signals from their senses: touch, sound, sight, movement, smell, taste, and body awareness.
Here’s what happens in a healthy sensory system:
- The brain receives this sensory information.
- It then organizes and categorizes it.
- Finally, it makes sense of it so the body can respond in an appropriate way.
This process happens automatically and quickly—usually without us even realizing it. For example, your child hears a loud noise (auditory input), and the brain quickly figures out if it’s something safe (like a balloon popping) or dangerous (like an alarm). Then the body reacts—either calming down or getting ready to respond.
But when the neurological process of sensory integration is disrupted, the brain may misinterpret or overreact to these signals. A child might:
- Cry when they hear certain everyday sounds
- Avoid touching different textures
- Struggle to stay balanced while walking or running
- Appear distracted, anxious, or overly sensitive
This is where occupational therapy with a sensory integration approach can help support better brain processing.
2. Adaptive Response: How the Body Reacts to Sensory Input
Once the brain processes sensory information, the next step is to respond appropriately. This is called an adaptive response.
An adaptive response is a purposeful and successful reaction to sensory input. It shows that the brain has made sense of the input and the child knows how to handle it.
Here are a few examples:
- A child sees a ball coming and reaches out to catch it (visual + motor response)
- They walk on uneven ground without falling (balance + body awareness)
- They feel someone brush against them in a crowd and stay calm (touch + emotional regulation)
A child with strong sensory integration skills gives adaptive responses without much effort. However, a child with sensory difficulties may:
- Overreact or underreact to sensory experiences
- Avoid certain activities (like climbing, brushing teeth, or noisy places)
- Struggle with motor coordination, attention, or self-regulation
Encouraging adaptive responses through sensory-rich play, movement, and structured activities helps the brain learn and grow stronger. This is one of the goals of sensory integration therapy.
Why These Concepts Matter for Parents
Understanding these key ideas helps you see what your child is experiencing on the inside:
- If their brain is having trouble organizing sensory input, it’s not bad behavior—it’s a neurological challenge.
- If they react too much or too little to sensory input, it means their adaptive response is not yet fully developed.
This understanding can lead to more patience, compassion, and effective support.
How Can You Support at Home?
- Offer sensory play: Activities like swinging, finger painting, or playing with clay can support brain processing.
- Watch and learn: Notice what types of input your child seeks or avoids.
- Use routines: Predictable environments help reduce sensory overload.
- Seek professional help: An occupational therapist can assess your child’s sensory integration and guide you with personalized strategies.
Final Thoughts
Sensory integration isn’t just about play—it’s about how the brain and body work together to help your child respond to the world. By understanding the neurological process and the adaptive response, you’re better equipped to support your child’s growth, learning, and happiness.
References:
- Ayres, A. J. (2005). Sensory Integration and the Child. Western Psychological Services.
- Schaaf, R. C., & Mailloux, Z. (2015). Clinician’s Guide for Implementing Ayres Sensory Integration. Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, 8(2), 92–103.
- Bundy, A. C., Lane, S. J., & Murray, E. A. (2002). Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice. F.A. Davis.
- Sensory Integration Global Network – www.siglobalnetwork.org
Tags: sensory integration, adaptive response, parenting tips, child behaviour, occupational therapy
Categories: Sensory Processing, Parenting Education, Child Development
