How Do Occupational Therapists Support Sensory Development?
Occupational therapists use sensory integration techniques to help neonates process and respond to sensory information. This is particularly important for infants with sensory processing disorder or those who have spent extended time in the NICU. Techniques may include: - Tactile stimulation: Using different textures to stimulate the sense of touch. - Proprioceptive activities: Encouraging movement and body awareness. - Vestibular input: Using gentle rocking or swinging to develop balance and spatial orientation.
