My son is almost 3 and Has Sensory Processing Disorder. Even though there ages are quite different it sounds like SPD, I am reading two books, one is called Raising A Sensory Smart Child by Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L and Nancy Peske This one helps you learn about:
*How the senses actually work and intergrate with each other
*How and where to get the best professional help
*"Sensory Diet" activities that meet your childs needs
*Practical solutions for daily problems- from brushing hair to getting dressed to going to family outings
*Using "sensory smarts" to help children with development delays, learning and attenetion problems
* Ways to advocate for your child at school and make schools "sensory smart"
*How to empower your child and teen in the world
* Complementary therapies, recommended resurces and helpful Websites
The second is called "The Out-of-Sync Child" by Carol Stock Kranowitz, M.A. and its about Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Integration Dsyfunction. Does your child exhibit....Any of the following (this is what the book handles)
***Oversensitivity- or undersensitivity to touch, taste, sound, or sight? Children with SI Dysfunction may avoid touching, refuse to wear certain clothing, be picky eaters, or cover their ears or eyes. Conversely , they may crave sensations- playing in the mud, grabbing others, turning up the volume, preferring hot bathwater and spicy food-and seem oblivious to sensory cues
***Oversensitivity or Undersensitivity to movement sensations? They may seek out movement- swinging, twirling, jumping or "plant themslves" avoiding active games
***Usually high or low activity level? THe child may be constantly on the go-wearing out everyone around them- or move slowly and tire easily, showing little interest in the world.
***Problems with motor coordination? He may be awkward, seemingly careless, or accident prone.
These telltale symptoms are often the first clues of SI Dysfunction a common, but frequently misdiagnosed, problem in which messages from the senses are not correctly processed by the nervous system. First identified decades ago by an occupational therepist, SI Dysfunction has only recently been widely recognized amoung doctors and psychologists. Now, this book offers comprehensive, easily understood information on SI Dysfunction and a drug free treatment approach for children who need help.
This book gives you a look at,
**Does your child have Sensory Intefrations Dysfunction?
* Understanding Sensory Integration and what can Go Wrong, **How to tell if your child has a problem with tactile Sense,
*How to Tell If Your Child Has a Problem with the Vestibular Sense
**How to Tell If Your CHild Has a Problem with the Proprioceptive Sense
*Diagnosis and Treatment
**Your Child at Home
* YOur CHild at School
**Coping with Your Childs Emotions
*Looking at Your Child in a New Light
I would definetly buy and read both books!! When I was reading after I found out about my son having SPD it was like a light switch went on for me and said " Ok this all makes sense why he acts this way"
If you would like to ask me further questions please email me at ____@____.com
We actually found out my son had it, by having him evaluated for his speech. Which ended up being fine, however after filling out all the questionires (sp?) And several trips to my house for different play activities and just from me explaining different situations to his OT he was diagnosed.
I know this was long but I hope it helps, and gives you options other than medicating.. It has rally helped me and my husband and our family deal with my son in a new light. Just dont be quik to point the finger at ADD or ADHD. They use serious medications and they have simular symptoms. If you are really going to look into this I would ask your ped. and have them schedule you a visit from a OT from the school district you are in. It will really cast a new light on things for your son and your family.
Thanks so much and I hope this helps some. Best wishes!! A.