Sensory integration and its significance for functioning and development of children’s speech

Abstract

Introduction. Sensory integration involves organizing sensory stimuli that are processed by the brain to produce adaptive responses to environmental demands. For a significant minority of children, sensory processing of information on daily basis may be a huge challenge. Sensory integration dysfunction occurs when the ability of different sensory systems for recognition, processing, and integration of stimuli and combination of information with modulations received from other systems is impaired. Sensory processing therapy. Sensory processing therapy is one of the newest, comprehensive therapeutic methods used in children with various pathologies. Sensory and perceptual development makes the basis to which sensory impressions, woven into social experience and neurological processing, are added to make a perception. That is why it is important to include young children in a stimulating environment that encourages active participation, enabling them to strengthen established neural connections, establish patterns of behavior, and properly understand past and anticipate future challenges. The aim of this study was to present the link between sensory integration and speech. The introduction provided an overview of the role of sensory processing and its significance for the overall child development. Also, the importance of researching sensory processing for the functioning and development of speech in children was emphasized. Conclusion. Finally, theoretical considerations on speech development in some disorders including sensory integration disorder were discussed.