Sensory processing (sometimes called "sensory integration" or "SI") is a term that refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses.  Sensory Processing Disorder ("SPD" or "Sensory Integration Dysfunction") is a condition that exists when sensory signals don't get organized into appropriate responses.  A person with SPD finds it difficult to process and act upon information received through the senses, which creates challenges in performing countless everyday tasks.  Motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression and school difficulties may result if the disorder is not treated effectively.

OTs help children learn to understand, process and organize sensations in their environments and respond in appropriate ways to everyday situations.  These sensations may include sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell and movement.  OTs help children learn to adapt and react appropriately in sensory rich environments.  For example, when most children feel crumbs on their faces, they wipe them away without much thought.  They may also hear a fire alarm at school, their reaction would be to line up with the other children at the door to exit the building.  However, children with sensory processing problems are unable to understand these sensations and their reactions to them are often negative, protective or fearful.  These children benefit from OT services to help them learn to integrate these sensations.  This helps them learn coping mechanisms and strategies to become more tolerant of the sensations in their everyday lives.  Children who cannot move their bodies freely or efficiently due to neurological impairments and other conditions also benefit from sensory input. Sensory input helps them organize their systems to promote motor control and fluid movement.