Unlocking Growth Through Sensory Integration: Insights from SLP Full Disclosure Ep. 108
When we think about helping children achieve their potential, building a strong foundation is key. Much like ensuring a house can weather a storm, focusing on foundational skills like sensory integration sets the stage for higher-level cognitive and social abilities.
In this blog, we’ll share some key takeaways and practical tips from episode 108 of the SLP Full Disclosure Podcast, where special guest pediatric occupational therapist Erika Trump, discussed sensory integration and child development support.
The Role of Sensory Integration in Sensory Development
Sensory integration is the process our brain uses to organize and interpret sensory information from the world around us. It’s essential for everything from understanding social cues to completing tasks at school.
When this process is disrupted, you might see signs like trouble sitting still, difficulty processing emotions, or challenges with speech and language tasks. By strengthening this foundation, children can better access skills like speech articulation, social interaction, and task-focused behavior.
Erica highlighted how sensory integration influences outward responses. For example, whether a child is sitting calmly or bouncing around the room could hinge on how their nervous system processes sensory input. Addressing this root cause makes it possible to support children in meaningful ways.
Two Transformative Strategies for Sensory Integration
Erica shared two key strategies that she regularly uses to help children find balance and get into a "just right" state of regulation:
- Heavy Work Activities
Heavy work activities are a game-changer for children who need help with regulation. These tasks activate the proprioceptive system, which involves the muscles, joints, and tendons. This system tells us where our bodies are in space and helps us move efficiently.
Why is this important? Heavy work can either calm a child who feels overwhelmed or energize one who needs more input. Simple activities like pushing or pulling heavy objects, jumping, or even carrying something with a bit of weight can reset a child’s nervous system to a balanced state. These exercises can be adapted for any child, based on their age and interests, making them a versatile tool in every SLP’s and parent’s toolkit.
- Breathing and Respiratory Activities
Breathing deeply is one of the simplest yet most effective tools to help children regulate. Erica introduced us to an activity called "Bubble Mountain." Using a container with water, a few drops of dish soap, and a straw or tubing, children blow bubbles that stack up into a fluffy "mountain." This fun exercise encourages deep, controlled breaths, which are naturally calming and organizing for the nervous system.
The added bonus? Activities like Bubble Mountain double as oral motor exercises, aiding speech development. Other easy options include blowing bubbles or spinning pinwheels—simple yet impactful ways to help kids regulate and prepare for more challenging tasks in speech therapy or at home.
Why Collaboration Is Key
One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation was the immense value of collaboration between professionals. Occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role in addressing sensory needs, and their expertise often complements the work of SLPs.
Erica reminded us that reaching out for help is always a good idea. Whether through structured collaborations or a quick consultation, OTs bring essential insight into sensory regulation strategies that can enhance speech therapy outcomes.
Dive into the SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
It’s inspiring to see how sensory integration can transform a child’s ability to learn, connect, and grow. We covered just a small slice of this fascinating topic in the SLP Full Disclosure podcast, and there’s so much more to explore!
Want to learn more? Join us on TikTok (@SLPFullDisclosure), where you can ask questions directly to Erica and connect with others passionate about supporting kids' development. Plus, don’t forget to follow AMN Healthcare on Instagram (@amnallied) to stay updated on resources, opportunities, and upcoming episodes.
Whether you're an SLP, parent, or someone looking to make a difference, remember that every step you take to support foundational skills helps build a brighter future. Keep listening, learning, and leading kids toward success—together, we can make an incredible impact.
