Shine Therapy Centre

About Sensory Integration Services

Sensory integration (SI) therapy is a specialist approach used by occupational therapists to help children who have difficulty processing and responding to sensory information from their environment and their own bodies. This includes the senses of touch, movement, body awareness, sight, sound, smell, and taste. Children with sensory processing differences may be over-sensitive or under-sensitive to certain inputs, or may seek out intense sensory experiences.

Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) is the gold-standard, evidence-based approach to sensory integration therapy. It is delivered by occupational therapists who have completed specialist postgraduate training in the approach. ASI therapy takes place in a specially equipped clinic environment with suspended equipment, tactile materials, and movement opportunities designed to provide carefully graded sensory experiences.

Sensory processing difficulties are common in autistic children, children with ADHD, and those with developmental coordination disorder (DCD/dyspraxia). A sensory integration assessment identifies the child's specific sensory profile and how it affects their daily life, learning, and behaviour. The therapist then creates an individualised therapy programme and may also provide a "sensory diet" of activities for home and school use.

Areas Served

• Cranbrook
• Maidstone
• Tunbridge Wells
• Tenterden
• Weald of Kent
• East Sussex

Specialisms

• sensory processing -- Assessment and support for differences in how children process sensory information
• fine motor skills -- Support with hand strength, coordination and control for activities like writing and buttons
• gross motor skills -- Support with whole-body movement, balance and coordination
• DCD -- Support for children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (dyspraxia)
• dyspraxia -- Assessment and support for motor coordination and planning difficulties
• autism -- Assessment, diagnosis and support for autistic children and young people
• daily living skills -- Help developing independence in self-care tasks such as dressing and eating

Before Your First Appointment

To get the most from your initial consultation, here are some things to consider:

• Bring relevant documents -- gather any previous reports (e.g. from school, NHS, or other professionals), letters from your child's SENCO, and any diary notes you have kept about your child's development or behaviour.
• Know what to expect -- most first appointments involve an initial assessment or consultation. The professional will want to understand your child's history, current difficulties, and what you hope to achieve. A written report with recommendations typically follows.
• Prepare your child -- explain in age-appropriate terms that they are going to meet someone who will play with them or talk to them, and that this person is there to help. Reassure them that it is not a test they can fail.
• Questions to consider asking -- How long is the assessment process? What will the report include? How many sessions might be needed? Can you provide strategies for home and school? What are the costs and are there any funding options available?

Helpful Resources

These SENDPath guides may be useful as you explore your options:

• What Is Occupational Therapy for Children?
• Sensory Processing Difficulties in Children
• Occupational Therapy Costs in the UK
• DLA for Autistic Children
• SEND Grants and Funding in Kent

Frequently Asked Questions