Sensory Processing Difficulties in Indigenous Youth

Anderson Therapy Services has been collaborating and working with Indigenous/First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across Northern Canada, Ontario and Quebec.

Sensory Processing is the way a person receives information from their senses, how they process that information and then respond to it. Sensory processing is different for each person because each individual has a unique nervous system and will respond to information from there senses in different ways.

Sensory processing differences can be a part of being unique. However, if these differences begin to impact the activities in a person’s day, it can be disruptive to learning, play, socialization, and physical health.

Here are some examples of when sensory processing differences interfere with important activities in a person’s day:

• Sound
  • Sensitivity in loud or busy environments such as a classroom or gymnasium
  • Humming or vocalizing at inappropriate times
  • Difficulty focusing with background noise
• Vision
  • Avoidance of bright rooms, sensitivity to light
  • Consistently seeking lights and colours in play
• Taste and Smell
  • Aversion to certain foods, food groups, or food textures
  • Chewing, eating, or licking non-edibles
• Movement and Spatial Awareness
  • Fidgety or busy (having great difficulty staying still to work and learn)
  • Climbing without regard for safety
  • Appears clumsy and awkward during movement
• Touch
  • Avoiding touch of certain textures or new objects
  • Constantly touching people to the point of distraction
  • Constantly touching objects to the point of annoying others
  • Aversion to clothing textures
• Other
  • Avoidance of certain environments
  • Melt-downs or tantrums with no observable cause

Our Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists collaborate with you and your child to identify the specific challenges they are having. Our therapists work with healthcare providers, educators, insurance companies, case managers, as well as lawyers to ensure comprehensive client care. Our services cater to the needs of the child and their family.

As a result, therapy sessions range in length, frequency, and duration. Sessions are tailored to your child’s age and interests and will also include a strong parental training component. We pride ourselves on providing engaging services that best meet the needs of the child.

Our therapy services for Indigenous/First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities can be accessed in remote areas using our online videoconferencing technology as well as on-site visits. Our unique service delivery model, in partnership with communities, has helped many First Nations children and youth achieve success across various needs.