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Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapists work with sensory processing, motor issues and occupational performance which with children means skills such as play and activities of daily living – feeding, bathing and life skills.

Sensory processing problems may be present could be with:

  • Hearing sound sensitivity (hands over ears) or appearing to be deaf
  • Vision light sensitivity or visual attention problems
  • Tactile over sensitivity to touch or insensitivity to pain (haircuts/brushing)
  • Vestibular craves movement – rocking, spinning or avoids movement
  • Proprioceptive excessive jumping, pushing, bouncing, flapping
  • Smell sensitivity to odors, fussy eater
  • Oral fussy eater, resistance to tooth brushing
“I have been big believer in making people aware of the sensory problems in autism, and these sensory problems are variable.”
Temple Grandin

Sensory diets or individual therapy programs targeted toward specific sensory issues are essential for every ASD child.

Actions:

Contact a local Occupational Therapist who specializes in Sensory Integration Therapy via www.otauswa.com.au or calling 9388 1490
 
Recommended Reading:

The Out of Sync Child and/or The Out of Sync Child has Fun
Carol Stock Kranowitz
www.therapybookshop.com $29.95 each
Available for loan at the Activ Foundation.

Raising a Sensory Smart Child – Lindsay Biel and Nancy Peske
www.therapybookshop.com $29.95

Sensational Kids – Dr Lucy Jane Miller
www.therapybookshop.com $35.00
 
Tips:

Look for an Occupational Therapy Student to work with your OT Therapist to help implement program at home. Try putting an ad on www.gumtree.com.au as students peruse these pages looking for work while studying.

Having trouble with haircuts? – try Banana Skins in Applecross. Nadia is fabulous and has wonderful distractions to help ease the sensory overload of a haircut. She can be contacted on 9315 1611.

Toys and therapy aids to implement your sensory diet can be purchased from http://www.windmill.net.au (Cottesloe)

Occupational Therapists do have their own individual style and treatment philosophies, if you feel that the treatment plan is not initiated in a way that feels right for you please investigate other Occupational Therapists until you find the right fit. REMEMBER that you still know your child best!