Date Presented 04/02/2022 Sleep is a crucial occupation, yet difficulties are pervasive across ne... more Date Presented 04/02/2022 Sleep is a crucial occupation, yet difficulties are pervasive across neurodivergent populations. Similarly, sensory integration differences are also highly prevalent in this group. More specifically, autistic individuals have a high probability of both sensory integration differences and sleep problems. Although both can interfere with occupational participation and performance, little is known about the relationship between these factors. Here we present preliminary results from a scoping review. Primary Author and Speaker: Marco A. Leao Additional Authors and Speakers: Shelly Lane, Virginia Spielmann
The prevalence of sleep dysfunction is considerably higher in the autistic population than in the... more The prevalence of sleep dysfunction is considerably higher in the autistic population than in the non-autistic. Similarly, the incidence of sensory reactivity differences in autism exceeds that in the neurotypical population. The basis of sleep disorders in autism is multifactorial, but sensory integration/processing concerns may play a role. Research that investigates this interplay for autistic individuals is limited but vital. In this scoping review, we examined literature addressing the following research question: What is the relationship between sleep and sensory integration/processing in autism? We included articles if they were peer-reviewed, English or Spanish, purposefully addressed sensory integration/processing differences, were sleep focused and included autism as the primary diagnosis or population. Articles were excluded if the language was not English or Spanish, research was conducted with animals, they were non-peer-reviewed, the primary population was not autistic...
Children with autism spectrum disorder frequently present with atypical behavioral responses to s... more Children with autism spectrum disorder frequently present with atypical behavioral responses to sensory stimuli, as well as differences in autonomic nervous system (ANS) and neuroendocrine activity. However, no one consistent pattern appears to explain these differences within this heterogeneous population. To conceptualize more homogenous ASD subgroups, sensory-based subtypes have been explored. One subtyping mechanism groups children by sensory responsivity pattern in addition to sensory domain. Differences in nervous system responsivity to sensory input within this sensory-based subtyping scheme have not yet been investigated. This exploratory study used ANS indices (respiratory sinus arrhythmia [RSA], skin conductance level) and neuroendocrine (salivary cortisol) response to examine patterns differentiating these subtypes. Significant differences in RSA were found during baseline, and during tactile, tone and movement stimuli (p < 0.05). Subtype membership was predicted by RSA changes during auditory stimulation and recovery periods (p < 0.05). Results confirm that children with an adaptive sensory responsivity subtype differ from those children with sensory processing dysfunction, however, physiological variables did not distinguish between children with different patterns of sensory processing dysfunction.
Deficits in sensory modulation have been linked clinically with impaired attention, arousal, and ... more Deficits in sensory modulation have been linked clinically with impaired attention, arousal, and impulsivity for years, but a clear understanding of the relationship between sensory modulation disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has proven elusive. Our preliminary work suggested that patterns of salivary cortisol and electrodermal responsivity to sensation may be linked to different groups of children with ADHD; those with and without sensory overresponsivity (SOR). Additionally, SOR has been linked to anxiety, and anxiety has been linked to ADHD. A clearer understanding of the relationship between anxiety, SOR, and ADHD may support a better understanding of ADHD diagnostic subtypes. We examined neuroendocrine, electrodermal and behavioral characteristics and sought to predict group membership among 6-to 12-year-old children with ADHD and SOR (ADHDs), ADHD and no SOR (ADHDt), and typicals (TYP). Behavioral questionnaires were completed to document SOR and a...
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2021
This study explored potential influence of a text-based program for fathers of children on the au... more This study explored potential influence of a text-based program for fathers of children on the autism spectrum. Fathers ( N = 184) were recruited through autism services across Australia. Participants received messages focusing on five domains: (a) relationships with parenting partner; (b) formal support; (c) father-child interaction; (d) understanding autism; and, (e) coping. Surveys explored parenting stress, co-parenting quality and autism-specific parenting self-efficacy. Eighty-eight percent completed the program, 43.6% completed pre and post surveys. There was significant reduction in parenting stress ( p < .01) and increase in autism-specific parenting self-efficacy ( p < .01). Effect sizes indicate these may be clinically meaningful. This highly scalable intervention has potential to influence factors that shape and sustain relationships fathers share with their children on the autism spectrum, families and services.
Introduction Disorders of Feeding and Eating Overview of Feeding and Eating Mechanics Feeding Pha... more Introduction Disorders of Feeding and Eating Overview of Feeding and Eating Mechanics Feeding Phases Linking Feeding and Developmental Milestones Defining Feeding and Eating Disorders Disorders of Feeding Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder The Context of Feeding and Eating Caregiver and Infant Interaction The Physical Environment Cultural Context Sensory and Motor Aspects of Feeding Oral Sensory Processing Oral Motor Issues Evaluation and Intervention for Disorders of Feeding and Eating Evaluation Intervention Prenatal Substance Exposure Context of Prenatal Substance Exposure Outcomes for Children With Prenatal Substance Exposure Assessment and Intervention for Children With Prenatal Substance Exposure Summary OUTLINE
Risky play is invigorating, challenging play with uncertain outcomes that optimizes children'... more Risky play is invigorating, challenging play with uncertain outcomes that optimizes children's development, health, and everyday well-being and creates opportunities to develop decision-making skills in low-consequence contexts, experience positive feelings such as confidence and courage, and enjoy health-promoting physical activity. Children with disabilities have fewer opportunities to engage in risky play, often because of the intervention of well-intentioned adults. In this paper, we define and examine the benefits of risky play for children with and without disabilities. Then, we examine the role of caregivers in “gatekeeping” risky play opportunities. We present two novel instruments that allow practitioners to assess caregivers' tolerance of risky play: the Tolerance of Risk in Play Scale-Revised (TRiPS-R) and the Tolerance of Risk in Play Scale-Teacher (T-TRiPS). We describe the results of psychometric analyses of these instruments, demonstrating evidence for construct validity and internal reliability of data collected using these instruments. Finally, we encourage practitioners who work with children with disabilities to employ these tools to promote risky play for the children they serve
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2020
Play is known as the core occupation of young children as it lays a foundation for their early de... more Play is known as the core occupation of young children as it lays a foundation for their early development and physical, emotional and social wellbeing. Literature suggests that unstructured free play and mindfulness interventions may independently promote wellbeing among preschoolers. However, there is no clear evidence of their combination in supporting wellness in early learning environments. We conducted a quasi-experimental study with 42 children aged four to six years, attending two kindergartens in Hong Kong. The intervention included unstructured play with non-directional loose parts (play materials), conducted outdoors for one hour daily followed by a mindfulness intervention for 10 min per day indoors. The intervention lasted for five consecutive days. We examined happiness and aspects of playfulness before and after the intervention, finding a significant increase in all areas. Given greater freedom in play choice, children showed more disruptive behaviors during unstruct...
Date Presented 03/28/20 Camp Jabiru (CJ) is a naturalistic camp that provides OT through a replic... more Date Presented 03/28/20 Camp Jabiru (CJ) is a naturalistic camp that provides OT through a replicable fidelity process for children with developmental differences. Campers improved their functional performance as measured by the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) from both parent and OT ratings. COPM positive change remained stable three months postintervention. The findings suggest the OT intervention provided at CJ via a replicable process has a positive and lasting impact on occupational performance. Primary Author and Speaker: Tracy Stackhouse Additional Authors and Speakers: Hannah Burke, Shelly Lane Contributing Authors: Caroline Hui, Lynette Burke, Beth Osten, Colleen Hacker
Date Presented 03/27/20 This study investigated the relationship between sensory reactivity and F... more Date Presented 03/27/20 This study investigated the relationship between sensory reactivity and FDD. Parents of three- to six-year-old children with and without FDD completed two questionnaires: the Toileting Habit Profile Questionnaire-Revised and the Short Sensory Profile. Children with FDD had higher levels of sensory hyper-reactivity. Screening for sensory hyper-reactivity may be important when working with children with FDD who have difficulty participating in toileting routines. Primary Author and Speaker: Isabelle Beaudry-Bellefeuille Additional Authors and Speakers: Shelly Lane Contributing Authors: Alison Lane, Eduardo Ramos-Polo
This pilot study examined the effect of an intensive, community-based life skills training progra... more This pilot study examined the effect of an intensive, community-based life skills training program on community integration and life satisfaction among individuals with traumatic brain injuries. Statistically significant improvements were found for subjects receiving intensive life skills training ( n = 18) on two of three Community Integration Questionnaire subscales at the follow-up evaluation, whereas no changes were found for a group of community-dwelling, demographically matched control subjects ( n = 18). No significant differences were found within or between groups on life satisfaction scores. However, pretreatment differences were present between groups on both community integration and life satisfaction. Findings of this study support community-based life skills training as a means to increase independence in home management and participation in productive activities for individuals with severe traumatic brain injuries.
Date Presented 04/06/19 Reports support the hypothesis that sensory issues may be related to atyp... more Date Presented 04/06/19 Reports support the hypothesis that sensory issues may be related to atypical defecation habits in children. Practice in this area is limited by the lack of validated measures. We used Rasch analysis, directed content analysis, and expert review to validate the Toileting Habit Profile Questionnaire (THPQ). After adjusting items, we examined the construct validity of the revised version (THPQ-R). The THPQ-R appears to capture challenging defecation behaviors related to sensory over-reactivity. Primary Author and Speaker: Isabelle Beaudry-Bellefeuille Contributing Authors: Shelly Lane, Anita Bundy, Alison Lane, Eduardo Ramos-Polo
Date Presented 04/06/19 Initial development of the Scale of Parental Playfulness Attitude during ... more Date Presented 04/06/19 Initial development of the Scale of Parental Playfulness Attitude during the co-occupation of play (PaPA, or Escala AJugar in Spanish) will be detailed. The PaPA is the first self-report measure, developed with the purpose of evaluating whether the approach of parents playing with their children between 2.5 and 6 years 11 months, reflects a playful attitude. It is expected to serve as a useful tool for professionals working on play with families of children with developmental challenges. Primary Author and Speaker: Rosa Roman-Oyola Additional Authors and Speakers: Chastiti Vazquez-Gual Contributing Authors: Itzamar Dasta-Valentin, Graciela Diaz-Lazzarini, Glorian Collazo-Aguilar, Coraly Yambo-Martinez, Anita Bundy, Shelly Lane, Victor Bonilla-Rodriguez
Sensory integration, now trademarked as Ayres Sensory Integration® or ASI, is based on principles... more Sensory integration, now trademarked as Ayres Sensory Integration® or ASI, is based on principles of neuroscience and provides a framework for understanding the contributions of the sensory and motor foundations of human behavior. The theory and practice of ASI continues to evolve as greater understanding of the neurobiology of human behavior emerges. In this paper we examine core constructs of ASI identified in the seminal work of Dr. Jean Ayres, and present current neuroscience research that underlies the main patterns of sensory integration function and dysfunction. We consider how current research verifies and clarifies Ayres’ propositions by describing functions of the vestibular, proprioceptive, and tactile sensory systems, and exploring their relationships to ocular, postural, bilateral integration, praxis, and sensory modulation. We close by proposing neuroplasticity as the mechanisms underlying change as a result of ASI intervention.
Date Presented 04/02/2022 Sleep is a crucial occupation, yet difficulties are pervasive across ne... more Date Presented 04/02/2022 Sleep is a crucial occupation, yet difficulties are pervasive across neurodivergent populations. Similarly, sensory integration differences are also highly prevalent in this group. More specifically, autistic individuals have a high probability of both sensory integration differences and sleep problems. Although both can interfere with occupational participation and performance, little is known about the relationship between these factors. Here we present preliminary results from a scoping review. Primary Author and Speaker: Marco A. Leao Additional Authors and Speakers: Shelly Lane, Virginia Spielmann
The prevalence of sleep dysfunction is considerably higher in the autistic population than in the... more The prevalence of sleep dysfunction is considerably higher in the autistic population than in the non-autistic. Similarly, the incidence of sensory reactivity differences in autism exceeds that in the neurotypical population. The basis of sleep disorders in autism is multifactorial, but sensory integration/processing concerns may play a role. Research that investigates this interplay for autistic individuals is limited but vital. In this scoping review, we examined literature addressing the following research question: What is the relationship between sleep and sensory integration/processing in autism? We included articles if they were peer-reviewed, English or Spanish, purposefully addressed sensory integration/processing differences, were sleep focused and included autism as the primary diagnosis or population. Articles were excluded if the language was not English or Spanish, research was conducted with animals, they were non-peer-reviewed, the primary population was not autistic...
Children with autism spectrum disorder frequently present with atypical behavioral responses to s... more Children with autism spectrum disorder frequently present with atypical behavioral responses to sensory stimuli, as well as differences in autonomic nervous system (ANS) and neuroendocrine activity. However, no one consistent pattern appears to explain these differences within this heterogeneous population. To conceptualize more homogenous ASD subgroups, sensory-based subtypes have been explored. One subtyping mechanism groups children by sensory responsivity pattern in addition to sensory domain. Differences in nervous system responsivity to sensory input within this sensory-based subtyping scheme have not yet been investigated. This exploratory study used ANS indices (respiratory sinus arrhythmia [RSA], skin conductance level) and neuroendocrine (salivary cortisol) response to examine patterns differentiating these subtypes. Significant differences in RSA were found during baseline, and during tactile, tone and movement stimuli (p < 0.05). Subtype membership was predicted by RSA changes during auditory stimulation and recovery periods (p < 0.05). Results confirm that children with an adaptive sensory responsivity subtype differ from those children with sensory processing dysfunction, however, physiological variables did not distinguish between children with different patterns of sensory processing dysfunction.
Deficits in sensory modulation have been linked clinically with impaired attention, arousal, and ... more Deficits in sensory modulation have been linked clinically with impaired attention, arousal, and impulsivity for years, but a clear understanding of the relationship between sensory modulation disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has proven elusive. Our preliminary work suggested that patterns of salivary cortisol and electrodermal responsivity to sensation may be linked to different groups of children with ADHD; those with and without sensory overresponsivity (SOR). Additionally, SOR has been linked to anxiety, and anxiety has been linked to ADHD. A clearer understanding of the relationship between anxiety, SOR, and ADHD may support a better understanding of ADHD diagnostic subtypes. We examined neuroendocrine, electrodermal and behavioral characteristics and sought to predict group membership among 6-to 12-year-old children with ADHD and SOR (ADHDs), ADHD and no SOR (ADHDt), and typicals (TYP). Behavioral questionnaires were completed to document SOR and a...
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2021
This study explored potential influence of a text-based program for fathers of children on the au... more This study explored potential influence of a text-based program for fathers of children on the autism spectrum. Fathers ( N = 184) were recruited through autism services across Australia. Participants received messages focusing on five domains: (a) relationships with parenting partner; (b) formal support; (c) father-child interaction; (d) understanding autism; and, (e) coping. Surveys explored parenting stress, co-parenting quality and autism-specific parenting self-efficacy. Eighty-eight percent completed the program, 43.6% completed pre and post surveys. There was significant reduction in parenting stress ( p < .01) and increase in autism-specific parenting self-efficacy ( p < .01). Effect sizes indicate these may be clinically meaningful. This highly scalable intervention has potential to influence factors that shape and sustain relationships fathers share with their children on the autism spectrum, families and services.
Introduction Disorders of Feeding and Eating Overview of Feeding and Eating Mechanics Feeding Pha... more Introduction Disorders of Feeding and Eating Overview of Feeding and Eating Mechanics Feeding Phases Linking Feeding and Developmental Milestones Defining Feeding and Eating Disorders Disorders of Feeding Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder The Context of Feeding and Eating Caregiver and Infant Interaction The Physical Environment Cultural Context Sensory and Motor Aspects of Feeding Oral Sensory Processing Oral Motor Issues Evaluation and Intervention for Disorders of Feeding and Eating Evaluation Intervention Prenatal Substance Exposure Context of Prenatal Substance Exposure Outcomes for Children With Prenatal Substance Exposure Assessment and Intervention for Children With Prenatal Substance Exposure Summary OUTLINE
Risky play is invigorating, challenging play with uncertain outcomes that optimizes children'... more Risky play is invigorating, challenging play with uncertain outcomes that optimizes children's development, health, and everyday well-being and creates opportunities to develop decision-making skills in low-consequence contexts, experience positive feelings such as confidence and courage, and enjoy health-promoting physical activity. Children with disabilities have fewer opportunities to engage in risky play, often because of the intervention of well-intentioned adults. In this paper, we define and examine the benefits of risky play for children with and without disabilities. Then, we examine the role of caregivers in “gatekeeping” risky play opportunities. We present two novel instruments that allow practitioners to assess caregivers' tolerance of risky play: the Tolerance of Risk in Play Scale-Revised (TRiPS-R) and the Tolerance of Risk in Play Scale-Teacher (T-TRiPS). We describe the results of psychometric analyses of these instruments, demonstrating evidence for construct validity and internal reliability of data collected using these instruments. Finally, we encourage practitioners who work with children with disabilities to employ these tools to promote risky play for the children they serve
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2020
Play is known as the core occupation of young children as it lays a foundation for their early de... more Play is known as the core occupation of young children as it lays a foundation for their early development and physical, emotional and social wellbeing. Literature suggests that unstructured free play and mindfulness interventions may independently promote wellbeing among preschoolers. However, there is no clear evidence of their combination in supporting wellness in early learning environments. We conducted a quasi-experimental study with 42 children aged four to six years, attending two kindergartens in Hong Kong. The intervention included unstructured play with non-directional loose parts (play materials), conducted outdoors for one hour daily followed by a mindfulness intervention for 10 min per day indoors. The intervention lasted for five consecutive days. We examined happiness and aspects of playfulness before and after the intervention, finding a significant increase in all areas. Given greater freedom in play choice, children showed more disruptive behaviors during unstruct...
Date Presented 03/28/20 Camp Jabiru (CJ) is a naturalistic camp that provides OT through a replic... more Date Presented 03/28/20 Camp Jabiru (CJ) is a naturalistic camp that provides OT through a replicable fidelity process for children with developmental differences. Campers improved their functional performance as measured by the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) from both parent and OT ratings. COPM positive change remained stable three months postintervention. The findings suggest the OT intervention provided at CJ via a replicable process has a positive and lasting impact on occupational performance. Primary Author and Speaker: Tracy Stackhouse Additional Authors and Speakers: Hannah Burke, Shelly Lane Contributing Authors: Caroline Hui, Lynette Burke, Beth Osten, Colleen Hacker
Date Presented 03/27/20 This study investigated the relationship between sensory reactivity and F... more Date Presented 03/27/20 This study investigated the relationship between sensory reactivity and FDD. Parents of three- to six-year-old children with and without FDD completed two questionnaires: the Toileting Habit Profile Questionnaire-Revised and the Short Sensory Profile. Children with FDD had higher levels of sensory hyper-reactivity. Screening for sensory hyper-reactivity may be important when working with children with FDD who have difficulty participating in toileting routines. Primary Author and Speaker: Isabelle Beaudry-Bellefeuille Additional Authors and Speakers: Shelly Lane Contributing Authors: Alison Lane, Eduardo Ramos-Polo
This pilot study examined the effect of an intensive, community-based life skills training progra... more This pilot study examined the effect of an intensive, community-based life skills training program on community integration and life satisfaction among individuals with traumatic brain injuries. Statistically significant improvements were found for subjects receiving intensive life skills training ( n = 18) on two of three Community Integration Questionnaire subscales at the follow-up evaluation, whereas no changes were found for a group of community-dwelling, demographically matched control subjects ( n = 18). No significant differences were found within or between groups on life satisfaction scores. However, pretreatment differences were present between groups on both community integration and life satisfaction. Findings of this study support community-based life skills training as a means to increase independence in home management and participation in productive activities for individuals with severe traumatic brain injuries.
Date Presented 04/06/19 Reports support the hypothesis that sensory issues may be related to atyp... more Date Presented 04/06/19 Reports support the hypothesis that sensory issues may be related to atypical defecation habits in children. Practice in this area is limited by the lack of validated measures. We used Rasch analysis, directed content analysis, and expert review to validate the Toileting Habit Profile Questionnaire (THPQ). After adjusting items, we examined the construct validity of the revised version (THPQ-R). The THPQ-R appears to capture challenging defecation behaviors related to sensory over-reactivity. Primary Author and Speaker: Isabelle Beaudry-Bellefeuille Contributing Authors: Shelly Lane, Anita Bundy, Alison Lane, Eduardo Ramos-Polo
Date Presented 04/06/19 Initial development of the Scale of Parental Playfulness Attitude during ... more Date Presented 04/06/19 Initial development of the Scale of Parental Playfulness Attitude during the co-occupation of play (PaPA, or Escala AJugar in Spanish) will be detailed. The PaPA is the first self-report measure, developed with the purpose of evaluating whether the approach of parents playing with their children between 2.5 and 6 years 11 months, reflects a playful attitude. It is expected to serve as a useful tool for professionals working on play with families of children with developmental challenges. Primary Author and Speaker: Rosa Roman-Oyola Additional Authors and Speakers: Chastiti Vazquez-Gual Contributing Authors: Itzamar Dasta-Valentin, Graciela Diaz-Lazzarini, Glorian Collazo-Aguilar, Coraly Yambo-Martinez, Anita Bundy, Shelly Lane, Victor Bonilla-Rodriguez
Sensory integration, now trademarked as Ayres Sensory Integration® or ASI, is based on principles... more Sensory integration, now trademarked as Ayres Sensory Integration® or ASI, is based on principles of neuroscience and provides a framework for understanding the contributions of the sensory and motor foundations of human behavior. The theory and practice of ASI continues to evolve as greater understanding of the neurobiology of human behavior emerges. In this paper we examine core constructs of ASI identified in the seminal work of Dr. Jean Ayres, and present current neuroscience research that underlies the main patterns of sensory integration function and dysfunction. We consider how current research verifies and clarifies Ayres’ propositions by describing functions of the vestibular, proprioceptive, and tactile sensory systems, and exploring their relationships to ocular, postural, bilateral integration, praxis, and sensory modulation. We close by proposing neuroplasticity as the mechanisms underlying change as a result of ASI intervention.
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