Sensory issues in autism are very challenging. They challenge the child, parents, teachers and therapists. The sensory responses interfere with a child’s ability to learn. The Early Start Denver Model, ESDM, uses specific techniques to address the sensory issues of children with autism during the session.
WHAT ARE SENSORY PROBLEMS?
Young children with autism frequently have sensory issues. It is part of the diagnosis criteria for autism. We describe some children as ‘under responsive’. Theses children often appear passive and lethargic. Other children are described as ‘over responsive’. They children are more active and restless, and attention is poor. Some children can be a bit of both. They can be ‘under responsive’ in one sensory area, and ‘over responsive’ in another sensory systems.
The signs of sensory sensitivities vary between children. It is hard to tell if a child is ‘over responsive’ or ‘under responsive’. Therefore, it is important to learn more about this area. The ‘Raising Children Network’ has an excellent description of sensory issues in this post.
HOW DOES THE ESDM IMPROVE SENSORY ISSUES?
The certified ESDM Therapist constantly monitors the child’s attention and ability to learn. This allows the therapist to immediately respond to sensory signs. Then the therapist can bring the child’s learning back to an optimal state. The rigorous training that the therapist goes through in their ESDM certification process means that they have the skills to do this quickly and effectively. At every session, the ESDM therapist will:
- Arrange the space because this facilitates processing, organisation and modulation of sensory stimuli.
- Manage the quantity and quality of sensory stimuli in the session.
- Provide a clear purpose to each activity so that it is easier to process.
- Choose play materials and activities that take the child’s sensory issues into account
- Modify the tone of voice because this modulates arousal
- Modify the level of the adult activity so it supports learning
WHAT IF THE SENSORY PROBLEMS CONTINUE IN THE ESDM?
When a child’s sensory issues continue to impact their learning as they move through their Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) program, our certified ESDM Therapists will look very closely at the child’s behaviours to determine the next step:
- Do we need input from our Occupational therapist so that further adaptations can be made to the child’s program? We frequently address teaching a child to brush their teach in our Occupational Therapy program. Do we need to introduce our sensory integration program?
- Is it a communication issue? Does our Speech Pathologist need to be involved so we can manage communication around the sensory issues?
- Has the child’s response become a learned behaviour, and we need to seek advice from the Psychologist or Behavioural Analyst?
Importantly, the Certified ESDM Therapist does not treat the sensory issues as a separate issue. They manage them in the social and physical context of daily routines, therapy sessions and learning experiences so the child can learn constantly. However, we may make recommendations to enhance the sensory environment at home.
We’re here to support you
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow and thrive.
Our clinics are not just a space for therapy – it’s a place where children can discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential.
By combining innovative therapy techniques with a stimulating and supportive environment, we’re proud to offer a holistic approach to paediatric therapy and early intervention that addresses the unique needs of each child we support.
Reach out for support
If you’re concerned about your child’s sensory issues or want to learn more about how ESDM can help your child, OneOnOne Children’s Therapy is here to help.
Call our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics on (02) 80657837 or email. You can book a free 30 minute phone call with us to discuss how we can support your child’s unique journey
We are a dedicated team of Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Certified ESDM Therapists, and Psychologists, serving families across Sydney. We have clinic in Bondi Junction and Mascot, Sydney’s Eastern suburbs. Our clinics are tailored to provide exceptional intervention for children with autism, developmental delays, disabilities, and learning difficulties, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support.
