This section deals with sensory issues, sensory integration, sensory processing disorders as they relate to autism, ASD and Aspergers. Everything from household chores for your child with special needs, to toys and play products that can help them develop gross motor skills.
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is prevalent in those with an autism diagnosis; however, it’s never been recognized as a distinct disease. In a new study from UC San Francisco, researchers have found that children affected with SPD have quantifiable differences in brain structure, for the first time showing a biological basis for the disease that sets it apart from other…
Fidget toys are a great way to keep hands busy, soothe nerves, help improve focus and occupy an active mind. What exactly are they?
Author Brenda Kosky Deskin has made some great suggestions on how to modify household chores so a child with special needs can handle them. It’s important to practice chores to work towards greater independence. Some chores can also be worked into a sensory diet. Having a child do household chores makes them feel they are contributing members of the family.…
The development of gross motor skills is essential to be able to run, walk, jump, climb, and play sports. Children with special needs require supported opportunities in which to develop these skills. This article lists six items that can be used to develop gross motor skills. To source products in Canada, visit FDMT’s website.
Parent of special needs children are often placed on waiting lists for occupational therapy services. Educators can also be in the same boat, having OT consults only 2 – 3 times a year. Development of fine motor skills is important for lifelong success. They form the foundation for writing, eating, cooking, typing – even putting in a contact lens. How do you work on these skills without the help of an OT? Author Ahren Hoffman shows us how to develop fine motor skills using toys and household items.
With a teacher for a mom and a physician’s assistant for a dad, Matthew North had two experts on the case from birth, but his problems baffled them both. “Everything was hard for Matthew,” says Theresa North, of Highland Ranch, Colo. He didn’t speak until he was 3. In school, he’d hide under a desk to escape noise and activity. He couldn’t coordinate his limbs well enough to catch a big beach ball.