Sensory integration is the foundation for the development of various other skills. If sensory integration does not develop properly, subsequent learning processes will be hampered. For example, it is difficult for a child to concentrate on studying if they are still disturbed by the friction of a clothing label.
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition caused when sensory signals are received but not interpreted normally by the nervous system. Children with sensory processing disorders have difficulty processing information from their senses, leading to confusion and behaviors that differ from their peers.
The observable behavioral symptoms include:
- Being overly sensitive or under-responsive to touch, light, sound, taste, smell, or movement
- Easily distracted
- Being overly active or, conversely, having minimal physical activity
- Poor motor skills, such as clumsiness, frequently bumping into or kicking objects while walking, or poor handwriting
- Resistance to personal care routines such as brushing hair or cutting nails
- Dislike of physical contact with others, making it difficult for them to be close to other people
Sensory issues can generally be addressed through sensory integration therapy or repeated sensory play to stimulate the child. Sensory play is also important for optimal child development and should not be delayed until problems arise. Here, parents play a crucial role in preparing and accompanying children during play at home.
One therapy that can also help with sensory processing disorders is Snoezelen therapy. Snoezelen is a multi-sensory stimulation approach aimed at stimulating the central nervous system (brain) through sensory stimulation such as vision, hearing, smell, touch, the vestibular system (balance), and proprioception, allowing children to achieve relaxation or engage in activities that enhance their quality of life.
Characteristics of Children Who May Benefit from Snoezelen Therapy
- Impulsive behavior or strong inner urges
- Easily distracted
- Difficulty reacting to their environment
- Lack of confidence in their abilities
- Struggles to identify sensory input
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fear of certain conditions, such as fear of the dark or certain sounds
- Difficulty interacting with others
- Defensive or hypersensitive
- Trouble initiating activities
- Lack of eye contact
- Difficulty expressing emotions
Snoezelen therapy aims to develop an individual’s sensory processing skills. For children, various activities in the therapy room stimulate sensory engagement, improve fine and gross motor skills, and enhance focus. The therapy environment is designed to be relaxing and stress-free. Additionally, therapists do not give direct instructions, allowing children to freely express themselves and gain confidence in engaging in activities they enjoy. This approach fosters a stronger therapist-child relationship.
The rehabilitation team at Jakarta Rehab Clinic can assist in managing sensory processing disorders. Snoezelen therapy is one of the available services at Jakarta Rehab Clinic, where a team of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialists and Occupational Therapists provide sensory play activities and therapy in the Snoezelen room.
References
- Passarello N, Tarantino V, Chirico A, Menghini D, Costanzo F, Sorrentino P, et al. Sensory processing disorders in children and adolescents: taking stock of assessment and novel therapeutic tools. Brain Sci. 2022 Oct 31;12(11):1478.
- Koller D, McPherson AC, Lockwood I, Blain-Moraes S, Nolan J. The impact of Snoezelen in pediatric complex continuing care: A pilot study. J Pediatr Rehabil Med. 2018;11(1):31-41.
- Unwin KL, Powell G, Jones CR. The use of Multi-Sensory Environments with autistic children: Exploring the effect of having control of sensory changes. Autism. 2022 Aug;26(6):1379-94.
- Guardado KE, Sergent SR. Sensory Integration. [Updated 2023 Jul 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: NCBI