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What is Sensory System?

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Summary

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The sensory system is how our bodies sense the world around us. It’s like the superpower that helps us see, hear, touch, taste, and smell things. Kids with special needs might have different sensory superpowers, and that’s okay!

Frequently Asked Question

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What are sensory sensitivities in kids with special needs?

Sensory sensitivities in kids with special needs refer to heightened or diminished responses to sensory input, making them more sensitive or less responsive to certain stimuli like noise, textures, or lights.

Can sensory issues be a sign of autism?

Yes, sensory sensitivities are often associated with autism spectrum disorders. Many children with autism may have heightened or unique sensory experiences.

What are sensory integration activities for kids with special needs?

Sensory integration activities include exercises and therapies designed to help children with special needs process sensory input more effectively. These activities can involve swinging, brushing, weighted blankets, and sensory-rich play.

Can sensory issues improve over time?

Yes, with appropriate support and interventions, many children with sensory issues can develop coping skills and experience improvement in their sensory processing abilities, leading to a better quality of life.

Scientific Definition

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The sensory system, scientifically known as the somatosensory system, is a complex network of nerves, receptors, and pathways in the body. It plays a crucial role in processing and transmitting information from our senses to the brain, allowing us to perceive and interact with our environment. This system encompasses various sensory modalities, including vision (sight), audition (hearing), tactile (touch), gustatory (taste), and olfactory (smell), each contributing to our overall sensory experience. In children with special needs, the sensory system may function differently, leading to unique sensory preferences and sensitivities. Understanding and accommodating these differences can provide them a more comfortable and supportive environment.

Real World Example of Sensory System

Meet Susie, a curious and spirited child with special needs. Her sensory system is like a magical adventure map that guides her through each day:

  • Sight: When Susie sees a bright rainbow after a rain shower, her eyes send colorful signals to her brain, filling her with wonder.
  • Sound: The sound of birds chirping in the morning is music to Susie’s ears, making her smile and feel the world waking up.
  • Touch: Soft, fuzzy blankets comfort her, like a gentle hug from her favorite teddy bear.
  • Taste: Sweet strawberries explode with flavor in her mouth, making her taste buds dance with delight.
  • Smell: The scent of freshly baked cookies in the kitchen makes Susie’s nose tingle with happiness.

Susie’s sensory system helps her explore and enjoy the world uniquely, like a daily treasure hunt. It reminds us that each child’s sensory journey is as special as they are, and understanding it brings joy to their world.

How Does Sensory System Work?

Understanding how the sensory system works can help parents support their kids with special needs. Here’s a quick overview:

  • Sensory Receptors: Special cells in our body, like our eyes, ears, skin, tongue, and nose, collect information from the environment.
  • Nervous System: These receptors send signals to our brain through the nervous system, like messages in a super-fast highway.
  • Brain Processing: The brain then processes these signals, turning them into what we see, hear, feel, taste, or smell.
  • Response: Based on this sensory information, our brain tells our body how to react.

Kids with special needs might have unique ways of processing sensory input, which can affect how they experience the world. Goally’s tablet provides engaging apps for life and language skills, emotional regulation, and daily routines, aiding kids with sensory system differences.