Sensory Integration Disorder (S.I.D.) Development of Sensory Integration Activities James Shorter•DES 505.3•Prof. Gomes•4-22-22
Abstract It is important that the child start off treatment in the best suited environment in order to promote an ever soothing, calming, stimulating atmosphere. This will allow the child to feel most comfortable and confident exploring and being constituently engaged in that exploratory behavior.
CONTENTS Chapter 1
Chapter 3
1.1 Introduction Problem / Purpose Statement 1.2 Importance of Study 1.3 Preliminary Research Summary 1.4 Scope of Limitations 1.5 Definition of Terms 1.6 Hypothesis 1.7 Proposed Solution 1.8 Chapter Summary 1.9 Timeline
3.1 Proposed Solution 3.2 Inspirations 3.3 Design Attributions 3.4 Product Assessment 3.5 Storyboard 3.6 Chapter Summary
Chapter 2 2.1 Research Methods 2.2 Survey Findings 2.3 Personas Scenarios 2.4 6 Sub-Problems 2.5 3 Most Challenging Problems 2.6 Storyboard 2.7 Comparative Analysis 2.8 Mapping Matrix 2.9 Chapter Summary 2.10 PERT Chart
Chapter 4 4.1 Feedback 4.2 strength - weaknesses 4.3 Final solution 4.4 Evaluation & Measures 4.5 Conclusion 4.6 Next steps
Chapter One
Introduction
Learning disabilities are of ever increasing concern when it comes to youth in America. It is estimated that 1 in 44 children have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In addition, it is said that Sensory Processing Disorders (SPD) affect 5 to 16 percent of school aged children.
Problem Statement: Seeking to address the lack of sensory development activities for young children with learning disabilities such as Sensory Processing Disorder and their effectiveness.
Initial Purpose Statement: Design and create sensory developing interactive wall for sensory challenged youth. These wall boards can be Interchangeable and suitable for the various sensory challenges according to type, severity and age range.
Importance of study The goal of sensory integration is to find ways for a child to learn proper responses to normal sensory feelings. Children have no idea what normal sensory feels like. Children only understand that the horn on the car causes them stress, the smell of chocolate makes them want to throw up and the vibrant plush pillow on the couch feels like sand paper.
Justification Treatment is designed to provide controlled sensory experiences so that an adaptive motor response is elicited. During play the focus should be on three basic senses. Tactile, vestibular and proprioceptive. These senses are interconnected with each other and other systems of the brain. These senses are critical and complex. They allow us to experience, interpret and respond to our environment.
Preliminary Research Sensory Integration Dysfunction (SID), a sensory processing problem that afflicts about 15% of children, sets many children on a developmental trajectory of emotional and social problems. Treatment focuses on arousal regulation, relationships and engagement, and sensory integration.
Sensory and motor activities are a means to an end; the end is 1) social participation 2) self-regulation, and 3) self-esteem & self-confidence.
The overall goal of treatment is (joy in life), not repairing sensory or motor functioning.
Scope of Limitations 1. The design must integrate seamlessly into the current sensory room. 2.The design must be adjustable for children of varying height differences. 3. Must eliminate the chance of causing harm to the children as much as possible. 4. This design differs from existing walls in that it incorporates movement of the lower body providing a close to total body experience. 5. Must incorporate the option of interchangeability of activity options.
Design Solution Sensory walls are created to aid and promote the use of our natural senses. A human brain produces and regulates responses to the body’s sensory experiences. Treatment is designed to produce controlled sensory experiences so that an adaptive motor response is solicited. Sensory play is developed to help develop and build stronger nerve connections in the brain. It promotes fine motor skills for hand eye coordination.
Reason why The current state of the sensory room at George Hall Elementary school is currently barren and lacking somewhat lacking in the quantity and quality of sensory building activities. The provided solutions will broaden the rand of the current methods and potentially keep the children engaged, curious and wanting more which would then set them in the right direction for seeking out further stimulation which will hopefully then bee recognized by their Occupational therapist, School psychiatrist, teachers, parents and eventually they would ideally recognize these developed qualities withing themselves.
Design Objectives The objective is to develop action oriented cause and affect outcome activities that go beyond what is already being provided to them. The children are not aware that they may have sensory issues, their brains are not developed enough to determine what is “normal” or abnormal behavior when it comes to sensory based behaviors. These designs also need to be safe and effective for the children and need to be designed in a way that will prevent harm and promote self regulating behavior responses. The design is developed in a way that allows various element to be adjusted for height of the child using it and it needs to have interchangeable elements in the event that a child gets board with the current element.
Users/Environmental Need Based on research it is determined that sensory integration treatment should begin as soon as possible and the earlier the better. There is not a specific timeline for sensory integration to take place but early intervention, consistent therapy and a home based program will undoubtedly have a progressive positive impact on a child which will ideally carry over and further develop withing the child’s social experiences.
Definition of terms Sensory Integration - The process by which we receive information through our senses, organize this information, and use it to participate in every day activities.
Occupational Therapist - a profession within healthcare. It is the use of assessment and
intervention to develop, recover, or maintain the meaningful activities, or preoccupations, of individuals, groups, or communities.
Tactile - Designed to perceived by touch. Vestibular - Relating to a vestibule, particularly that of the inner ear, or more generally the sense of balance.
Proprioceptive - Relating to stimuli that are produced and perceived within an organism, especially those connected with the position and movement of the body.
Parallel Play - A form of play in which children play adjacent to each other, but do not try
to influence one another’s behavior. Children usually play alone during parallel play but are interested in what other children are doing.
Spacial Awareness - Spacial awareness refers to being aware of your surroundings and your position relative to them. It’s includes knowing about location, distance, and personal space. Children usually develop spacial awareness at a young age.
Proposed Solutions Design and create an action oriented cause and effect devices that will promote various sensory outcomes and will keep children inspired and engaged to discover more.
Possible Hypotheses Help the nervous system modulate, organize, and integrate information from the environment, resulting in future adaptive responses. Improve sensory modulation related behavior and attention and to increase abilities for social interactions, academic skills, and independence through (S.I.D.) treatments. Treatment product should promote self regulation.
5 Common Senses Sight
Smell
Taste
Hearing Touch
Project Scope Develop methods that keep children engaged and stimulated. Create action oriented and elements that promote cause and effect outcomes.
Project Timeline
Week
Week
Week
Week
Week
Week
Week
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Journal Blog
Comment Journals
Assignment #1
Design Thinking
Assignment #4 Problem Purpose Statement
Quiz #1
Quiz #2
Assignment #2 & #3
Assignment #5 “Day in the Life”
Assignment #5b “Day in the Life”
Quiz #3
Assignment #6 Quiz #4
Midterm Review
Midterm Report
Survey Draft
Assignment #9
Assignment #7
Design Guide Draft
Assignment #8a
Chapter 1 Conclusion Sensory Integration Disorder is also referred to as Sensory Integration Disorder, Sensory Process Dysfunction, or Sensory Processing Disorder. Children have no perception of what it is to be in a “normal” state. There is no specific age in which a child should begin treatment, though it is important that the child start treatment as early as their caregiver deems appropriate
Chapter Two
Introduction This is when the first hand research occurs. In order to gain some of the most pertinent information it is necessary to seek out professionals in the specified industry profession. During this time you can ask your top questions and get immediate feedback and inspiration based on real life experiences, which provide the most valuable context to come up with a solution.
Research Methodology
Websites/Articles
Interviews
Photo Documentation
Surveys
Useful for data collection and statistics from studies provided Interviews provide valuable feedback on specific qualities and in news articles or scholarly journals. how to approach whatever the desired out come will be.
Acquiring images of the space and environment in its current This comes into play when one has done enough research in state to get a feel for what type of changes to make. order to know who the key players are and what questions to ask them.
Persona Study Acquiring First hand data provides some of the most valuable information and opportunities to develop empathy for the people involved and what their specific needs are.
Assumptions • Parents may not know what to look for when observing signs of S.I.D. • Not enough schools have effective Sensory treatments activities.
Panel of Experts
Phil Evans
Curator, Citywrights Collaborative
Lauren Wysocki Devon Zaky Speech Language Pathologist (G.H.E}
George Hall Elementary School Teacher
SandraRosen
Professor of Special Education, SFSU
Survey
Interviews After conducting research interviews with a few teachers, I found that one of the most valuable attributes of a sensory wall or most treatment must generate a cause an effect outcome. I have visited George Hall Elementary getting a feel for the environment and how to improve the sensory activities. I have developed and started to test the first of possibly three or four prototypes and based on the teachers, and children’s responses I develop and provided exactly what the target goal is and am currently moving on to the next concept.
Discussion with field Professional According to Sandra Rosen, Professor of Special Education at San Fransisco State University; Proprioception has to do with spacial awareness, lake of muscle tone development, posture problems and walking insecurities due to lack of balance. When this occurs it means that there nerve ending that have been intercepted causing lag time within the child’s brain that cuts off the communication from th child’s brain to other parts of the body causing lack of development that growth in various parts of the brain and body.
Sandra Rosen
Professor of Special Education, SFSU
Target Audience The key beneficiaries include Parents, caregivers, teachers, Occupational therapists and children in need of treatment. The target audience must provide the child with the proper amount of time, patience, attention and awareness for the child to learn grow and adapt to the provided treatment.
Personas
George
Anthony
Sydney
Diagnosed with sensory integration disorder. George doesn’t like wearing socks, or the feeling of having his hair brushed.
He recently has been diagnosed with ADHD. He enjoys getting out lots of energy during quality wrestling time with his dad and two older brothers. He currently is being taught how to meditate during after school therapy sessions.
She loves ponies and the smell of rubber bands. She also enjoys grocery shopping with her mom. Sydney becomes frightened at the sound of microwave beeps.
Jamal Occupational Therapist/ Speech Pathologist
Lisa Teacher, Early Childhood Development. Mother of three.
Nai Single mother of one.
3 Most Challenging Sub-Problems 1. In order for (SID) treatments to be considered viable, the use of evidence-based practice when choosing and implementing interventions is not only ethically required of the profession of the profession of Occupational Therapy but is also required under the individuals with disabilities education improvement act. 2. These treatments are limited by the types of designs and lack of fidelity measures ensuring validity of interventions provided. 3. One of the biggest limiting factors is the failure to link the changes in behavior to the changes in dysfunction. This failure could be a result of outcome instruments that are unrelated to expected outcomes or are not sensitive to change.
Pert Chart Research Design • Blog Post • 3 Projects Proposals • Research Topic • Past Project Critique • Interviews • Survey • Brainstorming • Research Design Solution Bibliography
Midterm
• Chapter 1 • Chapter 2 • Chapter 3 • Presentation
• Design Concept • Mock Ups • Prototypes • Presentation
Final • Design Concept • Mock Ups • Prototypes • Presentation
Chapter 2 Conclusion
Chapter two illustrated that one may not know exactly what a specific research topic is about beneath the surface by just doing a quick web browser search. It is important to seek out multiple sources especially when it comes to in person interviews or discussions with industry professionals.
Chapter Three
Design Inspiration
Even before embarking on the development journey this is an example of what my vision was at the time. I have thought of something like this even before seeing any examples. I felt that this idea was ideal because it provide a nice concise array of different activities all in one neat compact structure. This idea is great because majority of the components are made of wood and painted in attractive and appealing colors. Most of all this form of treatment includes many different physical functions.
After gaining a new perspective of what was needed, prior to speaking with my partner and visiting the school in person I realized that my initial idea will not be feasible to complete within the time constraints of the class etc. Unlike the photo on the left this concepts uses what looks like a combination of custom and already existing devices that have been adhered to the greater wall of the room. Unfortunately due to timing and building constraints, this would not be an option so we opted to focus on single devices for the children to use.
Comparative Analysis Product Image
Innovations
Weaknesses
The Original Stretchy, Comfy Neoprene Vest Provides Weight and Compression
Not one size fits all, Does not accommodate to all Sensory challenges
$ 579.95
Provide calming deep pressure sensory input to children with autism or hyperactivity with the adjustable Double Squeeze Machine from eSpecial Needs.
Could be dangerous if not monitored or used correctly
MSE Calming Sensory Room Bundle
$ 7,750.00
Transform almost any room to create a tranquil sensory environment with the MSE Calming Sensory Room Bundle. Kiddos will love hanging out in a space to help them diffuse excess energy and re-set their focus.
Large room space need, extremely costly
Sensory Playtivity Sensory Discs, Set
$ 35.99
Sensory Discs are excellent sensory tools for early learners and special needs students.
Limited by comparative assessment results
Montessori furniture Interactive sensory wall
$ 241.20+
Wall panel for playing at the waiting rooms of schools, hotels, restaurants or even at home.
Lacks integrated tactile textures
Weighted Compression Vest
Double Squeeze Machine
Cost
$ 78.99
Comparative Analysis
The image above is what is currently being provides in the sensory room, aside from a small trampoline and a “quiet corner”. As one can see the current state may not be the most effective execution of what a sensory room should be and does not necessarily promote an engaging, soothing space for a child to develop their skills.
Though this is not making up for an entire room redesign and layout, the sensory interactive wall shown above would add a special dynamic to the room without having to physically change the construction of the room in its entirety. The sensory wall is attractive appealing and engaging to children and it provides enough variety of sensory building activities that will keep children from getting bored.
Mapping Matrix Price: High
MSE Calming Sensory Room Bundle
Design: Worst Design: best Double Squeeze Machine
Montessori furniture Interactive sensory wall Weighted Compression Vest Sensory Playtivity Sensory Discs, Set
Price: Low
Specifications • Child friendly/inviting • Injury proof • Adjustable for height • Colorful • Variety of activities • Cause and affect responses • Should present sensory opportunities • Attain and maintain optimal arousal levels • Promote collaboration in chosen activity • Guide self regulation of behavior
Storyboards
1.
1.
2.
2.
3.
3.
Initial Concepts Sketches
Initial Concept Prototype Failed Attempt
This devise was created to provide visual stimulation and lower body engagement when paired with a foot pump. when pumped the element inside the tube would go up and down with each press of a child’s foot.
Initial Concept revision
Colored Acrylic Tubes, Tap water, Golf ball, Rubber End Caps These tubes were created to provides elements such as attractive neon colors that glow in sunlight, Bubbles, Gravitational pull subtle weight, Provide water sounds and vibrations and provides hours of engagement.
Secondary Concept Production Laser cut wooden veneer
Secondary Concept Parts
Secondary Concept Prototype Final before revisions
This devise was created to provide directional air blowing sensations to calm and sooth the user. I also provides lower body engagement.
Air Outlet
Foot Pump
Aquatic Tubing
Height Adjustment Bracket
Secondary Concept Prototype Final before revisions
Air Outlet
Height Adjustment pegs
Branding Colors Pallet
Typefaces Franklin Gothic Medium
f48f5b
ffffff
Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk LlMm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 . ! ? . “ ‘ () ^ & % Franklin Gothic Italic Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk LlMm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 . ! ? . “ ‘ () ^ & %
fdc868
f6f0e7
Logo Typeface Unknown Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk LlMm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz
51b1a7
ede2d0
Logo
Design Reasoning “Children with autism thrive in a calm and relaxing setting that discourages high-stress activity. When you decorate your child’s bedroom or paint other rooms in your house to accommodate autism-related needs, opt for colors that are muted and soothing. A serene room design will help your child relax after a busy day away from home. Brightly colored rooms are cute, but soft hues are best-suited to the needs of your child.”
https://www.autismtalkclub.com/what-colors-are-best-for-autism/
Chapter 3 Conclusion
Chapter three, I learned a lot at this point. a lot of my learning experience was first hand in person testing with the students and faculty. I had to really pay close attention on not what I or the teachers want but focusing solely on what the child may need and promoting the best experience and stimulation as I can.
Chapter Four
Final Product On site Testing
Water Tube
Air Pump
(Student A)
(Student B)
“Both students have a primary eligibility for special education under Autism. Sensory tools work to either increase or decrease arousal for students in order to get their bodies ready for learning. For some students, this means increasing arousal so they are able to focus on a task; for other students, this means regulating their bodies so they are calm and ready to focus on a task.” – Devon Zaky, Inclusion TOSA
Water Tube (Student A)
Student A (water tube) The sensory tool is providing stimulating sensory feedback. It’s an exciting item for the student and it’s increasing their arousal or energy. He clearly loves the visual component of the tool; you can see this when he brings it right up to his face, but other students might enjoy the tactile component of this tool as the ball vibrates through the tube as it moves. This could serve as a highly reinforcing item for this student to work for after completing a task or perhaps a tool to get him energized and ready to focus on a learning task.
Air Pump (Student B)
Student B (air pump) This tool is providing regulatory feedback. The air blast has a calming effect for him and he is exerting energy in order to get the feedback. This is a student that is usually very fidgety and tends to stimulation by rocking, jumping, or making vocalizations. While working with this tool, he appears ready for learning and would also possibly work for this sensory tool as a reinforcing item.
Direct Feedback Thank you! The Students love it! _ Kristen Crawford
“There is a lot to do to make a good portfolio book on it , but it is a market ready product.” “They are a huge success!” “I hope you have many more user reaction as overwhelmingly sincere and positive as we saw today!” – Phil Evans
“These devices are a hit! Can we pace an order for 20 of them?” – Devon Zaky
Air Pump (Student C)
Conclusion, Recommendation & Next Steps
Unfortunately the air pump device broke at the base during play and the stand after making revisions separated from the based. It will need a very strong connection so thats a good challenge for me. Things that kids will use need to be tested at full adult strength as an approximate test of repetitive challenges by kids, or accidental impacts of other kinds. Though this will be outside of the scope of the project I will be visiting George Hall in a few weeks to make a new stand possibly out of wood so it will be much sturdier.
Bibliography • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3708964/ • https://www.experia-usa.com/blog/multisensory-room-environmental-control/ • https://childrensupportsolutions.com/tools-resources/sensory-integration-disorder/ • https://www.autism360.com/what-is-sensory-integration-disorder/ • https://www.webmd.com/children/sensory-processing-disorder • http://www.brighttots.com/sensory_integration.html • https://atriumhealth.org/Documents/Developmental-Behavioral-Pediatrics/tips/SensoryIntegrationDisorder. • https://www.especialneeds.com/mse-calming-sensory-room-bundle.html?m=Configurable_Scp&431=118467&aid=141199&ne_ ppc_id=291163446&msclkid=3d8cde53c5fd15508298bc4b41d5f350&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=CPTV_Shopping_Top_Categories3&utm_term=4582489620335572&utm_content=Occupational%20%26%20Physical%20 Therapy%20Equipment • https://www.intuiface.com/blog/5-best-interactive-wall-examples • https://www.toolstogrowtherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Tools-to-Gro_SI-Basic-Guide.
Bibliography • https://www.especialneeds.com/double-squeeze-machine.html?m=Abstract&ne_ppc_id=291163446&msclkid=f19c1837624f132344357a2fe667b4cd&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=CPTV_Shopping_Top_Categories3&utm_term=4582489620335595&utm_content=Occupational%20%26%20Physical%20Therapy%20Equipment • https://funandfunction.com/weighted-compression-vest.html?glCountry=US&glCurrency=USD&ps=OTI9NDQmMTcwPTIwNjE%3D#92=44&170=2061&msclkid=f7dbe6610ca114a5692484798889e39c&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=KD+-+SHP+-+All+-+20220222&utm_term=4575617644874958&utm_content=Shopping • https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ901179.pdf • https://sensoryhealth.org/basic/latest-research-findings • https://www.schoolspecialty.com/essential-learning-products-sea-hollies-sensory-discs-set-of-5-multi-color-2006081?kxconfid=u7avswvjn&source=bing&campaignid=WP_-_PPC_-_BING_-_EE_Pillar_-_Null_-_RVN_-_Shopping_-_Null_-_Null_-_PPG_-_USA_-_ High&placement=shopping&keyword&msclkid=5548449688a91e6cd6b1268e0125f140&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=WP+-+PPC+-+BING+-+EE+Pillar+-+Null+-+RVN+-+Shopping+-+Null+-+Null+-+PPG+-+USA+-+High&utm_term=4579191056548170&utm_content=Ad+group+%231