Every second, a child interacts with the surrounding world and with their own body — touching surfaces, sensing tastes and smells, hugging, running or even just lying still. All of this is the work of the sensory systems, through which a child builds a connection with the world and with themselves. And it is at home, in a safe environment, that sensory experience develops most intensively.
What is sensory integration and what sensory systems exist
A sensory system is a way or channel through which our brain receives and processes information from the external environment and from our own body.
Simply put, through vision, hearing, smell, taste receptors and touch, our nervous system receives countless signals every moment.
There are also:
- proprioception — the sense of the position of the body and its parts, and muscle strength; thanks to it, we can scratch an ear without looking or carry a cup without spilling water, applying just the right amount of force;
- the vestibular system — the sense of balance, body position and movement.
Through all these channels and systems, the brain receives information, takes some of it into account, filters some of it out, compares it with past experience, integrates it into one picture and triggers further actions.
This process is called sensory integration. Thanks to it, we stay in contact with our body and the environment and produce appropriate responses.
Why is sensory integration important for a child's development?
All sensory systems and organs are “given” to us from birth and develop intensively during the early years. Sensory integration is the “foundation” upon which movement and coordination, speech, learning ability, self-regulation, appropriate reactions to stimuli, and social interaction develop.
If this foundation is weak or disrupted, all areas of life are affected.
The consequences can vary from everyday difficulties (uncomfortable sensations from clothing, water, food taste or smell) to challenges in forming relationships with others (conflicts, excessive emotional reactions or their absence).
And it is the early childhood years that provide an opportunity to correct integration through exercises and sensory toys.
Sensory integration disorders: how to identify them
Of course, only a specialist — a neurologist or neuropsychologist — can diagnose sensory disorders.
However, parents can pay attention to certain “red flags” that require consultation with a specialist.
- The child is hypersensitive to touch — fabrics, hugs, the feeling of sand or clay on the fingers, washing hair or cutting nails cause discomfort.
- The child seeks stronger tactile stimulation — initiates strong hugs, bumping, constantly squeezes or rubs something with their hands.
- Hypersensitivity to movement or changes in body position — avoids swings, overly active play, feels strong motion sickness.
- Insufficient vestibular sensitivity — does not feel movement risks, constantly spins, jumps, cannot stay still.
- Hypersensitivity to sounds, tastes, bright light.
- Seeking additional sensory stimulation — screaming, constantly making sounds, chewing non-food objects, staring at bright light.
- Proprioception difficulties — unable to button clothes, tie shoelaces, applies either too much or too little force, trips or bumps into people.
- Overreacts during communication or, conversely, shows no reaction at all.
In other words, there may be either hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli or insufficient sensitivity accompanied by the need for excessive stimulation.
All these points may be normal or temporary. It is worth paying attention if difficulties persist for a long time, the child differs significantly from peers, many signs overlap, or learning, communication and daily life become complicated.
Sensory integration exercises
A specialist will select a comprehensive therapy plan, but here are some useful exercises that can be performed both with ready-made items and with homemade materials.
1. Sensory development set "Hands-Feet"
A ready-made set of products and daily exercise cards. The exercises engage coordination, attention and memory, improve cognitive functions and develop proprioception.
2. Sensory Integration Development Set
The set includes 6 orthopedic puzzle mats, 1 double massage ball, 5 sensory motor bands, 1 reaction ball and 1 silicone expander.
The set provides diverse stimulation of the sensory system. The child walks barefoot on puzzle mats, rolls the massage ball under the feet or palms, stretches the expander, plays with a ball that bounces unpredictably, manipulates textured sensory bands, ties and unties them. This creates comprehensive sensory training.
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3. Massage Mat “Ortek Mix Puzzle” + Pattern Modules Set
The massage mat consists of 4 puzzle bases and 48 pattern modules. The 12 surface patterns provide different tactile and massage effects. The modules attach to raised “posts” on the puzzle. The child can arrange colorful patterns, sort them by color, place them randomly or create mosaic-like shapes. The elements hold firmly, so the child can safely walk on these sensory mats while massaging the feet.
More fun and useful games that will distract the child from cartoons and gadgets ;) can be found in the Olvi Educational Toys category.
Sensory games for toddlers using household items
The main rule of DIY sensory games is safety: no very small or sharp items, harmful substances or potentially dangerous actions. In fact, many everyday household objects can be turned into sensory tools.
1. Magic bag
Place objects of different shapes, textures and densities into an opaque bag. The child touches an object without looking, guesses what it is, describes it, then takes it out and examines it. This trains tactile perception and the ability to recognize shapes and surfaces by touch alone.
2. Dry sensory bin
Fill a deep container with grains or legumes and hide objects inside. The child digs them out, sifts and manipulates the grains. These simple games develop tactile sensitivity and fine motor skills.
3. Pillow path
Arrange pillows or rolled blankets on the floor. Depending on age, the child may walk across the soft path or jump from “island” to “island.” This develops the vestibular system, proprioception and coordination.
4. Explorer of the new
Offer the child a new taste or smell every day. This can be a tiny piece of food or the scent of any household item. Ask the child to describe the new sensation. This helps them focus on sensory perception and become more aware of their feelings.
Sensory integration is not a trendy concept for “special children,” but a natural process occurring on its own. However, small intentional actions (sensory activities) can help a child improve integration — providing more sensory experiences and engaging them in exploring the world and their own sensations. This becomes the foundation on which they can build a healthy adult life.
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