
02/07/2024
Attentional issues are common in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and they can affect their participation in daily activities and learning. Occupational therapy (OT) is a profession that helps people with ASD improve their functional skills and sensory processing through meaningful occupations .
Some of the OT interventions that can help children with ASD with attentional issues are:
- Sensory integration therapy: This is a type of therapy that aims to help children with ASD regulate their sensory input and output, and reduce sensory overload or under-stimulation. Sensory integration therapy can involve various activities that stimulate the senses, such as swinging, bouncing, brushing, playing with different textures, sounds, and smells, etc. Sensory integration therapy can help children with ASD become more calm, focused, and organized .
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This is a type of therapy that helps children with ASD develop coping skills and strategies to manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help children with ASD improve their self-awareness, self-regulation, problem-solving, and social skills. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can involve various techniques, such as relaxation, mindfulness, positive self-talk, role-playing, etc. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help children with ASD reduce their anxiety, stress, and frustration, and increase their attention and motivation .
- Environmental modifications: This is a type of intervention that involves changing the physical or social environment to suit the needs and preferences of children with ASD. Environmental modifications can help children with ASD reduce distractions, enhance comfort, and increase engagement.
Environmental modifications can involve various adjustments, such as lighting, noise, temperature, furniture, visual aids, schedules, routines, etc. Environmental modifications can help children with ASD focus better, feel more secure, and participate more actively.