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Recommendations for Dyspraxia & Sensory Integration Dysfunction in Children

Dyspraxia is a deficiency in motor skills that causes children difficulty performing fine motor tasks like writing and manipulating small objects. According to the National Center for Learning Disabilities, as many as 6 percent of children, mostly male, are affected. Sensory integration dysfunction is a problem in processing information that we receive from our senses. Both affect development by impairing skills needed to play and interact with others. Early identification and support helps children function at their optimal levels.

  1. Early Identification

    • Children with either dyspraxia or sensory integration dysfunction may be wary of certain tasks that are difficult or frightening to them. The child may be described as stubborn or lazy or caregivers may say, "he doesn't want to do it." Developmental delay may make it difficult for children to have meaningful relationships with their peers. Children with dyspraxia and sensory integration dysfunction may seem clumsy or may not meet certain milestones as expected. If you suspect that your child has a developmental delay or it is suggested by her doctor, prompt follow-up with an occupational or physical therapist, especially one who has training or expertise with children with developmental delay, is advised.

    Therapy for Dyspraxia

    • Children with dyspraxia often need speech, occupational and physical therapy. There are some overlaps with all of these therapies and therapists focus on repetition and practice of skills. Small tasks are tackled first so that children have success, building their confidence, making way for future success and enhanced development. Patience is necessary, since having difficulty completing age-appropriate tasks is at least as frustrating for the child as for his family. Physical, occupational and speech therapies are individualized based upon the degree of severity, type of dyspraxia and goals of the child and his family.

    Therapy for Sensory Integration Dysfunction

    • Play is central to therapy for sensory integration dysfunction. Children are exposed to a variety of sensory stimuli. As with treatment for dyspraxia, the goals of the family and child are the basis for the plan of care. Occupational therapy is combined with listening therapy, according to the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation. (Sensory integration dysfunction is also known as sensory processing disorder.) Listening therapy is based upon different music tones that stimulate and help organize the brain. Craniosacral therapy, (a hands-on therapy based on the flow of cerebrospinal fluid), acupuncture and a technique known as "brushing" are also used. Brushing is a practice in which a soft brush is used to stimulate the skin several times daily. These last three types of therapy are considered "complementary" therapies.

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