Irvine Therapy Services

Dr. Lucy Miller, renowned researcher in the field of occupational therapy and sensory processing believes that at least 1 in 20 persons has Sensory Processing challenges. These challenges impact the quality of life of children and adults. Occupational Therapy can make a big difference in the lives of this population of persons.

Sensory processing disorder when not treated does not disappear. Meet Bess who is 35. https://www.spdstar.org//it-officially-sensory-awareness-m

18 year old Georgie has challenges: https://www.spdstar.org//it-officially-sensory-awareness-m

Meet 11 year old Mizba Content Warning - self-harm / suicidal ideation. Mizba’s story contains a serious mental health crisis and may be upsetting to read. https://www.spdstar.org//it-officially-sensory-awareness-m

Meet Laura she’s 6 years old, she likes watching Spirit, swimming and splash pads. Laura has three older sisters and has been excited about starting Kindergarten for months. Learn More https://www.spdstar.org//it-officially-sensory-awareness-m

As children are spending more time in virtual learning situations, they have less ability to play and move their bodies, as they did during recess. This lack of physical activity impacts learning and even posture for most children, more so those with sensory processing challenges!

Matteo is 11 months old, he loves to sit and play with his favorite activity cubes and his cause and effect toys that sing songs and flash bright lights. He is happiest when life is predictable and he gets to play quiet games with Mom, he loves when they lie on the bed together and hide under the sheets. Matteo isn’t interested in the push along and ride along toys like his friends are yet. https://www.spdstar.org//it-officially-sensory-awareness-m

More and more cities and areas are including sensory sensitive playgrounds into their designs https://www.thetowntalk.com//all-inclusive-pla/5915341002/

Good article on the importance of movement in children https://www.presspubs.com//article_b058ca6e-130e-11eb-85de

Some children with autism can have difficulty with their gut. This is a good article about improving gut health. https://www.nutraingredients-usa.com//Fascinating-Probioti

As more persons are becoming aware of our sensory needs and differences, public spaces are incorporating sensory friendly experiences into their exhibits. Here's an example https://www.tapinto.net//trash-to-treasure-recycled-art-wi

Here's a school trying to incorporate some sensory breaks into a school schedule:https://www.13abc.com//dorr-elementary-principal-says-sen/

Here's an interesting read about families with children who learn differently and their struggles with online learning: https://www.goskagit.com//article_f5f80b5c-0da5-11eb-964f-

Virtual learning has been so difficult on my child. Sitting to learn in front of an Ipad or other device can be especially difficult for some children who need to move in order to learn.

This is a great overview of sensory processing for parents https://www.healthline.com/health/sensory-experiences

Some people see a swing but we see a training device. . . Coordination comes from the vestibular system located in the ear. We use our swing to stimulate the vestibular system by enabling children to move in a variety of directions to focus input into this system.

Rock climbing offers adventure for all ages. As an occupational therapist, I see rock climbing as a therapeutic activity that can help a child calm and organize, develop confidence and motor coordination. It offers great opportunities for children when they are not in a therapy gym!

Legos are a wonderfully creative tool for children, right? Not for all! Figuring out how to build with legos can be challenging for kids with sensory processing disorder. If your child struggles with legos, consulting an occupational therapist can provide answers.

Stairs or ladders make one think of climbing. As an occupational therapist, I think of them as a therapy tool to help children become calm and in control of their bodies and emotions, to help organize sensory information and to feel competent!

I don't like puzzles. It's not easy to see the parts that make up the whole picture. Children who have difficulty seeing parts from the whole may have sensory processing difficulties. Occupational therapy can help you understand what's going on.