The brain locates, sorts, and organizes sensations that are received from the outside environment and from inside our bodies so that we may interpret a situation and respond appropriately. When the brain's process of integrating sensations is disordered, a number of problems in learning, communication, development, or behavior may become evident. This is called Sensory Integration Dysfunction (DSI)
Sensory Integration Therapy is based on the premise that providing specific necessary sensory input through therapeutic play stimulates the development of the nervous system and eliminates abnormal behaviors that may be occurring due to poor or limited sensory processing.
The Schwartz Center for Children works with individuals whose diagnoses may include:
The Schwartz Center for Children has a sensory motor room with wall to wall matted flooring and suspension apparatus for vestibular stimulation. The Center also has several large pieces of motor equipment with this room, as well as throughout the building.
The Center also offers Aquatic and Hippo Therapy (riding on horses) outside of the building, and provides oral motor/feeding therapy for children with or without sensory defensiveness and hosts bracing and wheelchair clinics. Trainings are offered to parents, staff, and other community agencies on sensory integration and directed sensory motor play.
For more information about the Sensory Integration Program contact Joanne Vital Bernier at jvbernier@schwartzcenter.org or call 508.996.3391.
The brain locates, sorts, and organizes sensations that are received from the outside environment and from inside our bodies so that we may interpret a situation and respond appropriately. When the brain's process of integrating sensations is disordered, a number of problems in learning, communication, development, or behavior may become evident. This is called Sensory Integration Dysfunction (DSI)