Parents:
Because the vestibular system is one of our most primitive sensory systems, it is connected to other basic systems necessary for survival on a reflexive level. This means that your child does not even have to think about key responses when the vestibular system is activated. The vestibular reflexes serve to tie in vision, language and postural reactions on an automatic basis.
This arrangement within the nervous system leaves cognitive abilities free to think about the meaning of visual input and to ascribe language to that content as we move through space. Therefore, activating the vestibular system before assigning visual perceptual, language based, or hand function tasks is helpful for most children who have SPD.
For example, this youngster is lying on a platform swing with a task card showing a specific arrangement of the pegs to be placed onto a grid. In order to be successful, the youngster will have to stabilize the core muscles of his trunk in anticipation of moving his hands, while his brain processes the spatial language necessary to arrange the pegs properly.
Therapists:
Use of the vestibular system to lead out in treatment reflexively activates the vestibular, visual, and auditory triad. Tools for vestibular activation can include Kawar protocols such as the Infinity Walk and Astronaut Training, physioball and physioroll activities, climbing and sliding apparatus, as well as a host of swings. Plan to include a visual target along with an interchange of language during vestibular activities to prepare the child for ensuing cognitive follow up tasks.
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