Understand Sensory Processing Disorder Test and ABA for Kids

Welcome! If you've ever wondered why your child reacts strongly to certain sounds, textures, or lights, you are in the right place. Understanding sensory processing is key to supporting your child's development. This guide will walk you through sensory processing disorder (SPD), explaining what it is, how it's identified through a sensory processing disorder test, and how effective interventions like ABA therapy can make a significant difference. Let's explore how to unlock your child's potential and improve their daily experiences.
Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder in Children
Sensory processing disorder can make everyday experiences feel overwhelming for a child. Their brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. This can impact everything from their mood to their ability to learn and play. How a child processes sensory information is foundational to their development and overall well-being.
Navigating the world with sensory issues can be challenging, but understanding the condition is the first step toward getting the right support. Below, we'll look closer at what SPD is, how it impacts development, and the common signs you might notice in your child.
What Is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?
Sensory Processing Disorder, or SPD, is a condition where the brain has difficulty organizing and responding to information from the senses. This means a child might be over-sensitive, under-sensitive, or even seek out certain sensory experiences more than others. These sensory challenges can make simple daily activities feel difficult or stressful.
The core features of SPD involve how the nervous system interprets sensory stimuli like touch, sound, and movement. For some children, the tag on a shirt might feel unbearable, while others may not notice if their hands are messy. This inconsistent sensory processing can affect behavior, emotions, and attention.
To get an accurate diagnosis, a sensory processing disorder test is necessary. These assessments, often conducted by occupational therapists, help identify specific sensory challenges. The results are then used to create a tailored intervention plan, which can be a crucial part of ABA therapy, guiding strategies to help the child manage their sensory world more effectively.
How SPD Impacts Child Development
Sensory Processing Disorder can significantly affect a child's development across various areas. When a child struggles to process sensory input, their daily life is often disrupted. Activities like getting dressed, eating, or playing with others can become stressful experiences, which can limit their participation and learning opportunities.
The impact on social interactions is also notable. A child who is easily overwhelmed by noise may avoid group activities or birthday parties. This can make it difficult to form friendships and develop important social skills. These challenges can ultimately affect their overall quality of life and confidence.
ABA therapy can help children with SPD by teaching them adaptive responses to sensory stimuli. Through positive reinforcement and structured techniques, a child can learn coping skills to manage overwhelming sensory input. This support improves their ability to participate in daily activities, enhances their social engagement, and fosters better developmental outcomes.
Signs Your Child May Have Sensory Processing Issues
Noticing your child’s unique reactions to the world around them is the first step in identifying potential sensory processing issues. Children with SPD often have distinct sensory preferences and may experience sensory overload from stimuli that others barely notice. These responses can manifest in various behaviors.
If you are wondering whether your child should take a sensory processing disorder test, look for consistent patterns in their reactions to sensory stimuli.
Some common signs include:
- Extreme reactions to loud noises or bright lights.
- Aversion to certain textures of food, clothing, or toys.
- Constant need for movement, like spinning or jumping.
- Being clumsy or having difficulty with motor skills.
- Appearing withdrawn in busy or crowded environments.
These behaviors might suggest that your child is struggling to manage sensory information. Observing these signs can help you decide if a professional evaluation is the right next step to better understand and support your child's needs.
Types of Sensory Processing Challenges
Sensory processing challenges are not a one-size-fits-all issue. They can be grouped into different categories based on how a child’s brain interprets and responds to sensory information. Understanding these types can help pinpoint the specific difficulties your child might be facing in their daily activities.
The main categories include sensory modulation difficulties, sensory discrimination issues, and sensory-based motor disorders. Each type affects a child's ability to engage with their environment in different ways. We will explore each of these sensory processing challenges in more detail.
Sensory Modulation Difficulties
Sensory modulation refers to the brain's ability to regulate its responses to sensory stimuli. When a child has sensory modulation difficulties, they may over-respond, under-respond, or crave sensory input. An over-responsive child might find a normal level of noise painfully loud, while an under-responsive child may not notice a scraped knee.
Another common manifestation is sensory seeking, where a child constantly looks for intense sensory experiences, like spinning, crashing into things, or touching everything in sight. These behaviors are the child's attempt to get the sensory input their nervous system needs to feel regulated and organized.
ABA therapy is highly suitable for addressing these challenges. Therapists can use behavior modification techniques to teach children appropriate ways to meet their sensory needs and develop coping skills for when they feel overwhelmed. By creating individualized plans, ABA can help children with various sensory modulation difficulties learn to manage their responses more effectively.
Sensory Discrimination Issues
Sensory discrimination is the ability to interpret and distinguish between different types of sensory information. A child with sensory discrimination issues may have trouble telling the difference between similar sounds, textures, or shapes. This can affect their ability to understand and interact with their environment accurately.
For example, a child might not be able to feel the difference between a coin and a button in their pocket without looking. This difficulty in processing sensory details can also impact motor skills, such as knowing how much force to use when writing with a pencil or picking up a delicate object.
These challenges can make everyday sensory activities, like getting dressed or participating in arts and crafts, frustrating. An occupational therapist can help design sensory activities that improve a child's ability to discriminate between different inputs, which can be integrated into an ABA therapy plan to support skill development.
Sensory-Based Motor Disorders
Sensory-based motor disorders affect a child's ability to plan and execute movements. These issues are tied to how the brain processes sensory information to coordinate the body. A child with this type of disorder may appear clumsy, have poor balance, or struggle with tasks that require fine motor skills, like tying shoelaces or using scissors.
One key aspect of this is dyspraxia, or developmental coordination disorder, where a child has trouble conceptualizing, planning, and carrying out unfamiliar actions. This isn't a problem with muscle strength but rather with the brain's ability to send the right signals to the muscles for a coordinated response.
To assess these sensory processing difficulties, professionals may use praxis tests to observe how a child plans and performs new motor tasks. The results help guide interventions, including ABA therapy and occupational therapy, that focus on skill development. These therapies can break down movements into smaller steps, making it easier for the child to learn and master everyday actions.
When to Seek a Sensory Processing Disorder Test
Deciding when to seek a sensory processing disorder test can feel like a big step. If you notice your child consistently struggling with sensory challenges that interfere with their daily routines, learning, or happiness, it may be time to consult a professional. Early intervention is key to helping children develop effective coping strategies.
Getting an evaluation provides clarity on your child's specific needs and opens the door to targeted support. The sooner you understand the root of their sensory challenges, the faster you can implement strategies that will make a positive impact on their development and well-being.
Early Warning Signs to Watch For
Observing your child’s behavior in their everyday life is often the first indication that they may have sensory processing challenges. Early warning signs can appear in how they react to their environment and interact with the world. Paying attention to these sensory responses can help you determine if an evaluation is needed.
Here are some red flags that suggest your child might benefit from a sensory processing disorder test:
- Difficulty with transitions: Becoming extremely distressed when moving from one activity to another.
- Picky eating: Limiting their diet to only a few foods due to texture, smell, or taste sensitivities.
- Trouble with self-care: Resisting activities like hair brushing, tooth brushing, or bathing.
- Unusual pain tolerance: Seeming unaware of injuries or, conversely, having an extreme reaction to minor scrapes.
- Avoiding messy play: Showing a strong dislike for getting their hands dirty with paint, glue, or sand.
These behaviors can be more than just quirks; they may be signs of sensory overload or difficulty with sensory processing. If these issues are persistent and affect your child's daily functioning, seeking a professional opinion is a valuable next step.
Age-Related Differences in Sensory Symptoms
The way sensory processing disorder manifests can change as a child grows. There are age-related differences in symptoms, and what you see in a toddler may look very different from what you observe in a school-aged child. Understanding these shifts can help you better interpret your child's sensory experiences.
In toddlers, sensory challenges might appear as extreme picky eating, frequent meltdowns in noisy places, or a constant need to be in motion. They might avoid playground equipment or resist being held. These behaviors are often related to how they are processing the new sensory information of their expanding world.
As children get older, sensory issues can impact their ability to participate in daily activities at school and home. They might struggle with handwriting, have trouble sitting still in class, or find it difficult to make friends because social situations are too overwhelming. Recognizing these age-related differences is important for providing the right kind of support at each developmental stage.
The Importance of Timely Evaluation
Getting a timely and comprehensive evaluation is one of the most important steps you can take to support your child. Early intervention can make a profound difference in a child's developmental trajectory. When sensory challenges are identified early, strategies can be put in place to help the child learn, grow, and thrive.
An accurate diagnosis is the foundation for an effective treatment plan. Without it, a child's behaviors might be misinterpreted, leading to frustration for both the child and the family. A professional assessment provides a clear understanding of the child's unique sensory profile and guides the selection of the most appropriate therapies.
Ultimately, a timely evaluation can significantly improve a child's quality of life. With the right support, such as ABA therapy, children can develop coping mechanisms and adaptive skills. This empowers them to navigate their world with more confidence and participate more fully in daily activities, leading to greater happiness and well-being.
The Process of Sensory Processing Disorder Testing
The process of getting a sensory processing disorder test involves a comprehensive evaluation designed to understand your child's unique sensory profile. It's more than just a single test; it's a collection of observations, questionnaires, and standardized assessments that together create a complete picture of your child's sensory world.
Typically, this evaluation is conducted by trained professionals, most often occupational therapists, who specialize in sensory processing. They will look at how your child responds to different sensory inputs and how these responses affect their daily functioning. The goal is to identify specific areas of difficulty to guide effective intervention.
Overview of Common Assessment Tools
The process of testing for sensory processing disorder involves several common assessment tools to gather comprehensive information. These tools are designed to evaluate a child's sensory responses in various settings, such as at home and school. The two most widely used assessments are the Sensory Profile and the Sensory Processing Measure (SPM).
The Sensory Profile is a questionnaire completed by parents or caregivers that helps identify a child's sensory processing patterns in daily life. The Sensory Processing Measure is another valuable tool that collects information from multiple environments to see how a child manages sensory demands across different contexts. These standardized assessments provide objective data that occupational therapy professionals use to form a diagnosis.
Here is a brief comparison of these key assessment tools:
| Assessment Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Sensory Profile (SP) | A caregiver questionnaire that assesses a child's sensory processing patterns and behaviors in everyday situations. |
| Sensory Processing Measure (SPM) | Gathers information from multiple sources (e.g., home and school forms) to evaluate sensory processing, praxis, and social participation. |
What Happens During an SPD Evaluation?
During a sensory processing disorder assessment, a trained therapist will use a combination of methods to understand your child's needs. The evaluation is designed to be engaging and is often disguised as play to keep your child comfortable. A key part of the assessment involves clinical observations.
The therapist will watch how your child moves, plays, and reacts to different sensory stimuli in a controlled environment. They might use swings, textured balls, or other equipment to observe your child's balance, coordination, and responses to touch, sight, and sound. This helps them see firsthand how sensory processing affects your child's actions and behaviors.
In addition to direct observation, the evaluation includes interviews with you and other caregivers about your child's behaviors in daily living situations. This information, combined with the results of standardized tests, helps the therapist develop effective intervention strategies tailored to your child's unique profile.
Who Conducts SPD Assessments for Kids?
Assessments for Sensory Processing Disorder are primarily conducted by occupational therapists (OTs) who have specialized training in sensory integration. OTs are experts in how sensory processing affects a child's ability to participate in daily functioning, including activities related to play, self-care, and school.
While ABA therapists and behavior analysts are skilled in observing and modifying behavior, they do not typically provide the formal diagnosis for SPD. ABA therapists do not provide sensory processing disorder assessments as their primary role is to address the behavioral components related to sensory difficulties. However, their input is incredibly valuable. They can conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) to identify how sensory needs are driving certain behaviors.
Often, the best approach is a collaborative one. An OT can conduct the formal SPD assessment, and then a behavior analyst or ABA therapist can use that information to develop a comprehensive intervention plan. This team-based approach ensures that both the underlying sensory needs and the resulting behaviors are addressed effectively.
Frequently Used Sensory Processing Disorder Tests
When it's time for a sensory processing disorder test, professionals rely on several trusted tools to get an accurate picture of a child's sensory world. These tests are designed to be thorough, gathering information from multiple perspectives to ensure the resulting intervention plans are as effective as possible.
The most frequently used assessments include the Sensory Profile and the Sensory Processing Measure. These tools help therapists understand how a child experiences and reacts to sensory input in different environments. We'll take a closer look at what each of these tests involves.
The Sensory Profile and Its Role in Diagnosis
The Sensory Profile is a standardized questionnaire that plays a vital role in diagnosing sensory processing issues. It is typically filled out by a parent or caregiver and provides a detailed picture of a child's sensory experiences in their daily life. The questions cover a wide range of sensory systems, including touch, taste, sound, sight, and movement.
This sensory processing disorder test helps therapists understand how a child responds to different sensory stimuli. For example, it can identify if a child is over-responsive, under-responsive, or sensory seeking. The results create a "profile" that highlights the child's unique sensory patterns and challenges.
The information from the Sensory Profile is crucial for creating effective treatment plans. In the context of ABA therapy, the profile helps therapists understand the "why" behind certain behaviors. It guides the development of sensory integration therapy strategies that can be incorporated into a child's ABA program to address their specific sensory needs.
The Sensory Processing Measure Explained
The Sensory Processing Measure (SPM) is another one of the key assessment tools used to evaluate a child's sensory processing abilities. What makes the SPM unique is that it gathers information from different people in the child's life, such as parents and teachers, and across various environments, like home and the classroom.
This multi-perspective approach provides a holistic view of how a child's sensory challenges impact them throughout their day. The SPM consists of several forms that rate a child's responses to sensory stimuli, as well as their social participation and praxis (motor planning) skills. This comprehensive data helps therapists see patterns that might not be apparent in a single setting.
By comparing the ratings from different environments, therapists can identify specific triggers and challenges. The insights gained from the Sensory Processing Measure are invaluable for developing targeted interventions that support skill development and help the child function more successfully in all aspects of their life.
Direct Observation and Parent Questionnaires
Direct observation and parent questionnaires are essential components of a thorough sensory processing disorder assessment. What parents should expect during the evaluation is a multi-faceted process where their input is highly valued. Parent questionnaires, like the Sensory Profile, provide a wealth of information about a child's behavior in familiar, everyday settings.
During the assessment, a therapist will also conduct clinical observations. This involves watching the child engage in specific play-based activities designed to elicit responses to various sensory inputs. The therapist observes the child's motor skills, reactions to textures, balance, and attention in a structured setting. This allows for a firsthand look at the child's sensory processing in action.
Combining the detailed information from parent questionnaires with professional clinical observations allows the therapist to form a complete and accurate diagnosis. This collaborative approach ensures that the final assessment reflects the child's true challenges and strengths, leading to a more effective and personalized intervention plan.
The Relationship Between SPD and Autism
The relationship between Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a strong one, with a significant overlap in symptoms. Many children with autism also experience profound sensory challenges that affect their behavior and ability to interact with the world. In fact, sensory sensitivities are now part of the diagnostic criteria for ASD.
Understanding this connection is crucial for providing effective support. While not every child with SPD has autism, and not every child with autism has diagnosable SPD, addressing the sensory component is often key to improving social skills and overall functioning. We'll now examine how these two conditions intersect.
How Sensory Issues Present in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Sensory issues are extremely common in individuals on the autism spectrum, with reports suggesting up to 95% of children with ASD experience them. These challenges can manifest as either hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to sensory input. For example, a child might be distressed by the hum of a refrigerator or, conversely, seem indifferent to pain.
These sensory issues can have a major impact on daily functioning and social interactions. A child who is overwhelmed by bright lights or loud noises may avoid school assemblies or family gatherings, limiting their opportunities for social engagement. Similarly, a child who craves intense sensory input may engage in repetitive behaviors like rocking or hand-flapping to self-regulate.
ABA strategies address these sensory sensitivities by first identifying the function of the behavior. Therapists then teach coping skills and replacement behaviors. For instance, a child might learn to ask for a sensory break or use headphones instead of having a meltdown in a noisy environment. This approach helps the child manage their sensory world and participate more fully in life.
Overlapping and Distinct Features of SPD and Autism
While Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder share many overlapping features, especially regarding sensory issues, they are distinct conditions. Understanding both their similarities and differences is essential for an accurate diagnosis and for tailoring interventions to a child's unique needs.
Here are some key points of comparison:
- Core Deficits: The core challenges in autism involve social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors. In SPD, the primary deficit is the brain's inability to process sensory information effectively.
- Social Motivation: A child with SPD may avoid social situations because they are sensorily overwhelming, but they often desire social connection. In contrast, a child with autism may have fundamental difficulties with social motivation and understanding social cues.
- Repetitive Behaviors: While both may exhibit repetitive behaviors, in SPD they are often a direct attempt to self-regulate sensory input. In autism, these behaviors can be more complex and serve various functions.
- Diagnosis: SPD is typically diagnosed by an occupational therapist, while autism is diagnosed by a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or neurologist.
An SPD test before starting ABA therapy is not always required but is highly recommended. It can provide invaluable information to help behavior analysts understand the sensory drivers behind certain behaviors, leading to a more effective and compassionate intervention plan.
Introduction to ABA Therapy for Sensory Processing
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a well-established, evidence-based approach that can be highly effective for children with sensory processing challenges. By applying the principles of behavior analysis, ABA therapists can help children learn to manage their responses to sensory input and develop more adaptive behaviors.
This therapy focuses on understanding why a child behaves a certain way and then creating a systematic intervention plan to teach new skills. The following sections will explore the core principles of ABA and how they are specifically applied to address sensory needs, helping children navigate their world with greater comfort and confidence.
Key Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding behavior. Its key principles focus on how behavior works and how it is affected by the environment. One of the foundational concepts is that behaviors that are reinforced are more likely to be repeated. This is a core tenet of behavior modification.
A central technique in ABA is positive reinforcement. This involves rewarding a desired behavior to increase the likelihood that it will happen again. For example, if a child with sensory issues successfully tolerates a new food texture, they might receive praise or a preferred activity. This makes the experience more positive and encourages them to try again.
ABA therapy can help children with SPD by breaking down complex skills into small, manageable steps. This process, known as task analysis, supports skill development in areas where sensory challenges create barriers. By systematically teaching and reinforcing adaptive behaviors, ABA helps children build confidence and independence in their daily lives.
How ABA Therapy Addresses Sensory Sensitivities
ABA therapy provides a structured and data-driven way to address sensory sensitivities. The first step is a functional behavior assessment (FBA) to understand what triggers a child's sensory-related behaviors and what purpose those behaviors serve. This allows therapists to develop a targeted plan.
One of the primary ABA strategies is systematic desensitization. This involves gradually and carefully exposing a child to a sensory stimulus they find aversive, like a loud noise or a specific texture. This is done in a controlled and supportive way, often pairing the exposure with something the child enjoys to create a positive association.
Another key component is teaching coping skills and replacement behaviors. Instead of engaging in a maladaptive response to overwhelming sensory stimulation, a child can be taught to request a break, use a calming tool, or engage in a more appropriate sensory activity. This empowers the child to manage their own sensory needs effectively.
Individualizing ABA Strategies for Sensory Needs
One of the greatest strengths of ABA therapy is its ability to be completely individualized to a child's unique needs. When it comes to sensory processing, this personalization is crucial. No two children have the exact same sensory profile, so their intervention plans must be tailored accordingly.
ABA strategies are not applied in a one-size-fits-all manner. A behavior analyst will use the information from sensory assessments and direct observation to design ABA interventions that target the child's specific sensory sensitivities or seeking behaviors. For a child who is over-responsive to sound, the plan will look very different than for a child who craves deep pressure.
This individualized approach makes ABA therapy suitable for a wide range of sensory processing challenges. Whether a child has difficulties with sensory modulation, discrimination, or sensory-based motor skills, the intervention can be adapted. The goal is always to create a plan that respects the child's needs while teaching them the skills to navigate their sensory world successfully.
ABA Strategies Used for Sensory Regulation
ABA therapy offers a toolbox of effective strategies to help children improve their sensory regulation. These ABA techniques are designed to teach children how to manage their responses to sensory input so they can feel more calm, focused, and in control throughout their day. The focus is on building practical coping skills.
From gradually increasing tolerance to certain stimuli to reinforcing positive behaviors, ABA strategies provide a structured path toward better self-regulation. The following sections will detail some of the specific methods used, including desensitization and reinforcement approaches, to help children achieve greater sensory balance.
Desensitization Techniques in Practice
Desensitization is a core technique in ABA therapy used to help children become more tolerant of sensory input that they find overwhelming. This process, also known as gradual exposure, involves introducing a challenging stimulus in small, manageable doses over time. The key is to proceed at the child's pace, ensuring they feel safe and supported.
For example, for a child who is sensitive to the texture of sand, a therapist might start by having them touch a single grain of sand. As the child becomes comfortable, the therapist slowly increases the amount of sand, always pairing the experience with positive reinforcement. This systematic approach helps the child's nervous system adapt to the sensory input.
This is one of the most effective interventions because it doesn't force a child to endure discomfort. Instead, it gently expands their tolerance through positive experiences. These desensitization techniques can be incorporated into fun sensory activities, making therapy feel like play while helping the child build crucial coping skills for sensory processing disorder.
Reinforcement Approaches for Adaptive Sensory Responses
Reinforcement is a cornerstone of ABA therapy, and it plays a powerful role in teaching adaptive sensory responses. The goal of behavior modification in this context is to encourage behaviors that help a child manage their sensory needs in a healthy and functional way. Positive reinforcement is the primary tool used to achieve this.
When a child demonstrates an adaptive behavior—such as using headphones in a loud room instead of screaming—they are immediately rewarded with something they value, like praise, a favorite toy, or a special activity. This reinforcement strengthens the connection in their brain between the adaptive response and a positive outcome, making them more likely to use that skill again.
This approach is not about stopping sensory behaviors but about shaping them into more appropriate and functional ones. By consistently rewarding adaptive behaviors, therapists help children build a new toolkit of responses to sensory challenges. This empowers them to navigate their environment with greater success and less distress.
Real-Life Examples of ABA Interventions for SPD
To understand how ABA therapy can help children with sensory processing disorder, it's helpful to look at real-life examples. ABA interventions are practical and focused on improving skills for daily living. The strategies are tailored to each child's specific challenges and goals.
Here are a few examples of ABA interventions in action:
- Tolerating Haircuts: For a child who fears haircuts due to the sound and sensation of clippers, a therapist might use desensitization. They would start by playing a recording of the sound at a low volume, gradually increasing it over time while providing reinforcement. They might then move to touching the clippers to the child's arm (while off), then turning them on nearby, and so on, until the child can tolerate the full experience.
- Expanding Food Preferences: To help a picky eater with texture aversions, a therapist could use a "first/then" approach. "First, you touch the broccoli, then you get 1 minute of iPad." The demands are slowly increased from touching, to smelling, to licking, to taking a small bite, with reinforcement at each step.
- Managing Overwhelm in Stores: A child who gets overwhelmed in crowded stores could be taught to request a "break" by pointing to a picture card. This gives them a functional way to communicate their needs instead of having a meltdown.
These examples show how ABA interventions break down challenges into small, achievable steps, using reinforcement to build new skills and improve a child's ability to participate in daily life.
Conclusion
Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and its impact on children is crucial for parents and caregivers. By recognizing the signs and knowing when to seek testing, you can ensure that your child receives the support they need to thrive. The relationship between SPD and autism highlights the importance of tailored interventions, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, which can significantly improve sensory regulation. Implementing effective strategies not only enhances your child's daily life but also fosters their development.
At Achieve Behavioral Therapy, we help families connect the dots between sensory processing challenges and effective ABA support. Serving New Jersey and North Carolina, our team works with parents to understand assessment results and turn them into practical, individualized strategies that improve focus, regulation, and daily comfort. By combining sensory awareness with evidence-based ABA techniques, we create plans that support real progress at home and school. Contact Achieve Behavioral Therapy today to learn how our personalized approach can help your child thrive with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sensory processing disorder tests required before starting ABA therapy?
While not always mandatory, a sensory processing disorder test is highly recommended before starting ABA therapy. An accurate diagnosis provides crucial information that helps behavior analysts develop more effective and targeted intervention strategies, ensuring the therapy addresses the root sensory causes of behavior and not just the symptoms.
Can ABA therapy be combined with other sensory integration treatments?
Yes, ABA therapy can and often should be combined with other treatments like occupational therapy that focus on sensory integration. A collaborative approach creates a comprehensive intervention plan that addresses both the behavioral and sensory aspects of sensory processing disorder, leading to better outcomes for the child.
What should parents expect during a sensory processing disorder assessment?
During a sensory processing disorder assessment, parents should expect a multi-part process. This includes completing questionnaires about their child's daily living, participating in an interview with occupational therapists, and having their child engage in play-based activities designed to observe their responses to various sensory input.
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