Sensory processing involves how the brain receives, organises, and responds to sensory input from the environment. For many individuals, especially children, sensory processing issues—often seen in diagnosis’ like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)—affect their ability to engage with and interpret their surroundings. This can lead to difficulties in social interaction, understanding verbal cues, and even producing speech. Speech therapists (or speech pathologists in Australia) are uniquely positioned to address these issues, helping individuals improve their sensory regulation and thus enhance their communication skills.
The Connection Between Sensory Processing and Communication
Communication relies on the brain’s ability to process sensory input seamlessly. When sensory processing is disrupted, the way individuals interpret and respond to social cues, language, and physical sensations changes significantly. Here are some ways sensory processing issues impact communication:
- Hyper- or Hyposensitivity: Individuals may be overly sensitive (hyper) or under-sensitive (hypo) to sensory stimuli. For example, a child with auditory hypersensitivity may find loud or even regular sounds distressing, making it hard for them to focus on conversations. In contrast, a child with hyposensitivity may not react to sound stimuli at typical levels, leading to missed social cues or difficulties following instructions.
- Difficulty in Modulating Responses: Those with sensory processing issues may struggle to regulate their responses, which affects social communication. A sudden noise might trigger an extreme reaction, while someone else may not notice a subtle, socially relevant sound (like a peer’s laugh), leading to misunderstandings.
- Impact on Speech Development: For children with sensory processing issues, basic sounds, words, and phonemes can be overwhelming. They might avoid talking due to discomfort with sounds, textures, or the physical process of producing speech, leading to speech delays or atypical speech patterns.
- Behavioural Challenges: Sensory difficulties can result in behaviours like fidgeting, avoidance, or aggression, which can interfere with engaging in communication-focused activities. This is especially challenging in group settings, where social interaction is vital.
Role of Speech Therapists in Addressing Sensory Processing Issues
Speech therapists in Australia are equipped with various techniques to assist individuals in managing sensory challenges as they relate to communication. These interventions typically involve a combination of sensory integration approaches, communication skills training, and collaboration with occupational therapists.
1. Sensory Assessments in Speech Therapy
Before intervention, speech therapists conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the individual’s sensory profile. They may use tools like the Sensory Processing Measure (SPM) or collaborate with occupational therapists who specialise in sensory integration. By understanding a client’s sensory preferences and challenges, therapists can tailor their communication strategies to suit the individual’s sensory needs.
2. Creating a Sensory-Friendly Therapy Environment
Speech therapists often adjust their environment to make it more conducive to individuals with sensory processing issues. This may involve reducing visual or auditory stimuli, using dim lighting, or incorporating calming sensory tools like weighted blankets or fidget items. These accommodations can help reduce sensory overload, making it easier for the client to focus on communication tasks.
3. Developing Sensory Regulation Techniques
Speech therapists work on helping clients develop self-regulation techniques, which are critical for successful communication. Techniques such as deep breathing, tactile fidgeting, or proprioceptive activities (e.g., using stress balls or resistance bands) can help individuals maintain calm and focus. This regulation is essential when engaging in conversations or other social interactions.
4. Building Tolerance for Sensory Input Related to Communication
Some speech therapy sessions focus on gradually building tolerance to sensory inputs that are necessary for communication, such as sounds, textures, or oral-motor movements. For example:
- Auditory Desensitisation: For individuals with auditory hypersensitivity, speech therapists may use a process called “graded exposure” where they gradually introduce sounds at tolerable levels, slowly increasing the volume or intensity over time.
- Oral Sensory Desensitisation: Speech therapists may incorporate textured or flavoured oral tools (e.g., chewable necklaces or flavoured straws) to help clients become comfortable with the sensations involved in speech production.
5. Speech and Language Techniques Adapted to Sensory Needs
Speech therapists use a variety of sensory-informed techniques to develop communication skills:
⦁ Visual Supports: Many individuals with sensory processing challenges benefit from visual aids, such as picture cards or written instructions, which help them process information without relying solely on auditory input.
- Tactile Feedback: Therapists might use tactile methods, such as tapping the lips or jaw, to reinforce the production of sounds and words, especially when working with individuals who have motor planning challenges related to sensory processing issues.
- Simplified Language: Some individuals with sensory processing challenges struggle with complex verbal instructions. Speech therapists may simplify their language and use short, clear phrases that are easier to understand and process.
6. Enhancing Social Communication Skills
For clients with sensory processing difficulties, social communication is often particularly challenging. Speech therapists help develop skills such as turn-taking, eye contact, and listening. Techniques include:
- Role-playing and Modelling: Practising social scenarios helps clients understand and manage sensory challenges in real-world contexts.
- Social Stories: Social stories provide clients with structured scenarios that describe sensory stimuli and social expectations, preparing them for potentially overwhelming interactions.
7. Collaborating with Occupational Therapists and Educators
Collaboration with occupational therapists is especially beneficial as they bring specialised sensory integration techniques. Speech therapists work with them to develop coordinated plans addressing both sensory processing and communication skills. Additionally, collaborating with educators helps ensure that the strategies used in therapy are applied consistently in classrooms, further supporting the client’s communication development.
8. Educating Families and Caregivers
Since sensory processing issues extend beyond the therapy room, speech therapists play a key role in educating families and caregivers. This support often includes:
- Training in Sensory Regulation Techniques: Families learn how to apply sensory strategies, like deep pressure or sensory breaks, to help manage meltdowns or anxiety at home.
- Guidance on Communication Strategies: Families are taught ways to adjust their communication, such as using visual cues, providing quiet spaces, or following a predictable routine, which all aid sensory regulation and support communication.
Conclusion
Sensory processing issues pose a range of challenges to communication, but speech therapists can play a pivotal role in bridging these gaps. By adapting sensory-informed techniques, providing a supportive environment, and collaborating with other professionals and families, speech therapists empower individuals to overcome sensory barriers and develop meaningful communication skills.
Next Steps:
If you would like support with your child’s communication skills, it may be helpful to have consult with one of our speech pathologist (SP) for a formal evaluation and intervention support.
Transform Life is a NDIS registered organisation that provide support for you and your family.
Book your consult with an experienced Therapist at Transform Life to explore how Positive Behavioural Support, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy can support you and your family.
