My World of Senses
Sensory processing, or sensory integration is something that most of us take for granted. When we hear a noise, our brains interpret the sound waves nearly instantly and our bodies react accordingly. A loud noise may make us startle, or someone calling our name may make us look their way. Maggie has to work harder to coordinate sensory inputs with her reactions. One of our early concerns was that she did not startle when we clapped our hands behind her, nor did she turn her head when we called her name. We went through a series of hearing tests, including a sedated BAER, and thankfully they showed no physical impairments in Maggie's hearing. Instead, she needs to learn how to integrate her hearing with her reactions. This is just one example of the new world of sensory processing that our family is learning about.
Sensory Resources
Since we suspected that Maggie has some sensory issues, Erin went to a Sensory Resources workshop in Massachussets. Maggie's Mom came back fired up with ways to help Maggie, loaded with toys and swings to expand Maggie's sensory world, and information to help us learn more about the complex world of sensory integration. Sensory Processing Disorders (SPD) are more widespread than most people realize. Some are manifest in significant ways, like autism spectrum disorders, while others seem increasingly common like ADHD. Other parents of angelsOften report that their children have SPDs as well.
International Union of Angelic Anarchists Local 2.