Sensory Processing and Behavior
(Instructor-Led WORKSHOP)
What Do You Sense?
Introduction
When working as a well-oiled machine, our Sensory System is the key to how we function successfully within our environment each day. Our 8 senses allow us to see, smell, hear, touch, feel, move, and balance which leads to our ability to regulate our body’s feelings and needs. When our senses are activated, they store memories of both good and bad sensations which we use as information for the future, causing us to seek or avoid those experiences the next time. When we have trouble in one area, the other senses jump in like teammates to help take over where they can to continue to meet our body’s needs. Impairment in any of our senses disrupts the typical functioning of our nervous system and often leads to dysregulation within our body. Through the review of each of our 8 senses, you will learn how they work together and how dysfunction in any area will impact our state of regulation and our ability to be successful and independent throughout our day. Understanding the needs of our students who struggle with sensory processing disorder will give you greater insight as to how to provide strategies, accommodations, and encouragement so they can be successful in their day, too.
Sensory Processing and Behavior
(Instructor-Led WORKSHOP)
Objectives
- You will be able to identify the 8 Sensory Systems.
- You will be able to recognize signs students may demonstrate of over-responsiveness and under-responsiveness to sensory stimuli within each of the sensory systems.
- You will be able to identify supports, strategies, and/or accommodations to help with regulation of a student’s sensory needs.
Glossary:
Sensory Processing Disorder – a neurological condition that interferes with the body’s ability to receive messages from the senses and convert those messages into appropriate motor and behavioral responses.
Sensory Regulation Continuum – includes passive and active sensory strategies by those who either over-respond (avoiders) or under-respond (seekers) to sensory stimuli
Under-Responders – they do not notice and process information received from the senses so they SEEK more input to help alert their brain/body
Over-Responders – more sensitive to sensory stimulation than most people. Their bodies feel sensation too easily or too intensely so they will AVOID sensory stimuli.
Co-Regulation – is the interactive process by which caring adults provide warm supportive relationships to promote self-regulation through coaching, modeling, and feedback within structured and supportive environments
Neurochemicals – molecules that affect the nervous system and impact regulation, such as Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin, and GABA
Neurodivergent – is the term for when someone’s brain processes, learns, and/or behaves differently from what is considered “typical.” e.g. ADHD, Autism, Trauma, OCD, etc.
Trauma Informed Care – recognizes and responds to the signs, symptoms, and risks of trauma to better support the health needs of patients who have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress
Course Instructors
