The Wilbarger Protocol

In response to children who display sensory defensiveness from being oversensitive, the Wilbarger Protocol is designed to help reduce the discomfort and slowly help children become more used to touch. This practice is especially popular with autistic children.

History

• The Wilbarger Protocol first appeared in Patricia and Julia Wilbarger's book "Sensory Defensiveness in Children Aged 2-12" and was displayed as a way to help combat sensory defensiveness in children. This practice is widely used by many occupational therapists trained in sensory integration.

Application

• The Wilbarger Protocol involves brushing that takes place every two hours for 2 to 3 minutes. Brushing applies pressure to the skin using a surgical brush and is similar to getting a deep massage.This goes on for two weeks, at which point the recommendation is to re-evaluate how often the treatment is needed based on progress.

Scientific Research

• As of 2010, little scientific research is available to confirm or deny the effectiveness of the Wilbarger Protocol for autistic children in dealing with sensory defensiveness. The lack of valid scientific research is considered one of the major downsides of this method.

Misconceptions

• Many people believe the Wilbarger Protocol only lasts two weeks, but this is not the case. The initial treatment lasts two weeks, then is adjusted based on the individual progress each child displays.