Can SI intervention help children learn to talk or to read?
If the basis for the lack of speaking clearly or reading well is rooted in sensory processing problems, then, yes, it can help develop those abilities. Many children with speech and language problems have difficulty with cerebellar functioning. The cerebellum is the center in the brain where vestibular (movement), ocular (visual), and proprioceptive (body position) input is organized. Occupational and physical therapy with a sensory integration focus can address these issues, resulting in improved language skills and reading abilities. In addition, skills addressed through this therapy, such as regulation of arousal level, postural control, and motor planning, are foundation abilities that are needed to support learning of any kind.
