Sensory processing, also known as sensory integration, is medical term that defines the way nervous system receives and senses messages. Once the message is sensed, an action follows, such as a behavioral response or a motor action.

Infants who display delays in sensory processing have a difficult time responding to their sensory signals. For instance, a baby who is injured may not cry as expected. In other instances, an infant may overreact to the slightest touch. Even the fabric of a soft blanket may be too much for a baby with a sensory processing disorder to handle, and they may react with incessant crying. Other babies may cry when around light and/or sounds.

Occupational therapists help babies with sensory processing delays and disorders by first diagnosing the disorder, then applying various exercise techniques to help the baby become more comfortable and adapt easier to daily living.

For example, if an infant has trouble sleeping through the night due to sound sensitivity, an occupational therapist will create and carry out an individualized plan that helps the baby grow more tolerant to common noises. If a baby has touch sensitivities, an occupational therapist will work towards promoting decreased touch sensitivity. Common exercises and activities may include:

• Relaxing bath time activities, using soft soaps and gentle massages
• Specialized toys and activities to help babies learn how to deal with sounds, lights, and touch appropriately
• Sand and water therapy
• Joint and brushing compressions
• Proprioceptive input activities
• Vestibular input activities
• Feeding therapy
• Olfactory input activities