Expert: Michelle Fattig - 4/14/2008

Question
Motor Integration Therapy related to Autism. Could you please explain what
this is and how it works.  All you could provide would be very helpful.  
Thank you very much

Answer
I have not read or utilized the method; however Sensory Motor Integration is an area we utilize frequently in understanding sensory resonses and overload.  "Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a complex disorder of the brain that affects developing children. Children with SPD misinterpret everyday sensory information, such as touch, sound, and movement. Depending on which type of SPD a child has, he may feel as if he is overwhelmed with information, he may seek out intense sensory experiences, or he might have other symptoms. This can lead to behavioral problems, difficulties with coordination, and other issues."  A wonderful checklist to identify triggers to focus on can be found at:  http://www.sensory-processing-disorder.com/SPD-symptom-checklist-for-infants-and...

I am sorry that I am not more helpful on Motor Integration Therapy.  I would suggest asking your school's Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist for more specific information.  The following is helpful information about Sensory Motor Integration Therapy as well:
"Many children with autism have difficulty processing sensory input; these disturbances appear to be more common during infancy and early childhood than they are in adulthood. Sensory integration symptoms are often treated with sensory integration therapy. This therapy involves the use of planned and controlled sensory experiences, for example, swinging, deep pressure touch, and touching different types of objects. After reviewing sensory integration literature, the authors found that no firm conclusions could be made about the advantages of sensory integration therapy. This is because there are so few studies on the effects of sensory integration therapy on children with autism."  Found at:   http://autism.healingthresholds.com/research/interventions-to-facilitate-audi

Please let me know if I can be of more help.