This blog is a way to examine my many adventures as I try to make the most of this life, and teach my boys how truly magical every moment can be. We may have ups and downs, but either way we are learning through exploration. My job is to try to make learning enjoyable so they always have a thirst for it.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
What in the world is SPD?
I have mentioned in a few posts about my youngest being diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). What is SPD you may ask? Basically it is a neurological disorder where the brain doesn't process sensory cues like normal people. The wires get crossed so to say. This can present itself in kiddos who experience senses more extreme than others or it can be the opposite and they don't experience senses as intensely. Some kiddos experience both depending on the sensory we are talking about. It is a spectrum disorder so there is a wide range of how it can turn out in each child diagnosed with it.
I am still learning myself. It is like learning a new language and I have had to learn quickly. My youngest was diagnosed at 19 months because I originally thought he had a speech delay. A development specialist and speech pathologist came to observe him and all though he didn't say anything they observed "hurricane play", extreme reckless behavior & rough play, eating issues, and more. They really felt the language was there, but because he could regulate his sensory issues he wouldn't use language. In fact, the sensory issues was affecting his entire way of being able to function. Then came an observation from an OT (or new saving grace) and she confirmed SPD diagnosis.
It has been a whirlwind last three months. With lots of reading and scouring the internet. The most ironic thing is my oldest son may have it as well. There are some major red flags, but they are completely different than my younger ones. Hence, the spectrum part of things. Here is some things that helps shed light on the whole issue if you interested (they can explain it far better than me):
Books that I like on SPD:
Super long post I know. Hmm now you know what has been on my plate. The good thing: a lot of the way you work with these kiddos is with sensory play. Well I can do that-I have been doing that. Now I am learning new ways to play and can I just tell you my little one is up to saying 18 words since we started OT sensory activities. He also will look at a book, and can point out body parts & animals, and play (well for a little bit). It's true! That doesn't mean I don't have a LONG road up ahead because I do. I hope you still read as I continue working with my boys, even if it tends to be more sensory related. Post this week on sensory play ideas that are great for ALL kids!!!
What a wonderful resource you've provided here, Sarah! Thank you for sharing! While my kiddos don't seem to have SPD, I'm anxious to hear more about the activities you're doing, all that you're learning, and how your boys are doing. Keep sharing!
I'm so glad I found your blog!! I now this is an old post, but it's exactly where we are right now! My 2.5 year old has been in speech/OT for 6 months for a speech delay and isn't making a whole lot of progress in the speech department, and since a rocky start at a mother's day out program, her therapists and I are just putting 2 and 2 together on this...it's so nice to put a "label" on what's going on with her and after reading this post I finally feel like we are not alone! Thank You!! Kim :)
What a wonderful resource you've provided here, Sarah! Thank you for sharing! While my kiddos don't seem to have SPD, I'm anxious to hear more about the activities you're doing, all that you're learning, and how your boys are doing. Keep sharing!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad I found your blog!! I now this is an old post, but it's exactly where we are right now! My 2.5 year old has been in speech/OT for 6 months for a speech delay and isn't making a whole lot of progress in the speech department, and since a rocky start at a mother's day out program, her therapists and I are just putting 2 and 2 together on this...it's so nice to put a "label" on what's going on with her and after reading this post I finally feel like we are not alone! Thank You!! Kim :)
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