The Great Shalom Podcast : Overcoming Learning Disabilities

The Great Shalom Podcast :  Overcoming Learning Disabilities


Sensory Integration with Nikki Branch, OT

March 18, 2021

We are hearing a lot about sensory integration problems and the discipline that is handling sensory integration problems most is Occupational Therapy. It may seem strange to have children going to occupational therapy, but Nikki will explain to us that this is about the normal tasks that occupy a persons time. LOL Anyway, here is a brief introduction, from 2010, to OT for sensory integration.

We loved Nikki, who was a graduate of Baylor and a member of what was then the fastest growing church in Austin. She worked for Milestones, but has moved away since then. However, some of what she said, related to 2010 is exactly what needs to be considered today in 2021, that we can not speak about. you will hear it, carefully said, and you will know.

WHAT I DO
From my doctor mom and preschool educator perspective lots of sensory experiences, at the child's level is a great idea. Dr. Montessori based much of her work on sensory education. Children's task in the first years is to explore their environment, but modern environments are often too restrictive. For instance, a child can investigate a crib or a playpen only so much. They want to feel the carpet and the grass. They wan to bang the pots and the cabinet doors. They want to feel the difference between the velvet cushion and the satin one. The Montessori classroom offers these experiences in an organized manner. Also, as a grandmother of children who had problems, I offered a lot of swinging, rocking, and dancing to one child. Another needed extra time to draw circles and boxes and learn how to use a pencil. As an educator, I have seen children with differing problems. Some great OTs really helped families who were mystified about their children's troubles.

Please chime in and tell us what is going on for you parents and your professionals now. We love to hear from you.