How can I assess the sensory integrative function of children from birth to 3 years of age?
Gather your information from several sources. Most important are the child’s parents and child care provider. Interview them to find out how processing of sensory information affects the child’s interaction with others, sleep/wake cycles, and play and eating behaviors (DeGangi et al, 1995; Jirgal, Bouma, 1989). Clinical observation and a thorough knowledge of sensory integration theory and typical and atypical development are also essential. Although formal tests may be difficult to administer to very young children, DeGangi and Greenspan (1989) have a test of sensory integration function, and Miller (1994) has developed assessments of the quality of movement based on SI and neurodevelopmental therapy principles for this age group. Many other developmental tests also contain items that provide information about an infant’s sensory processing, coordination, and motor planning abilities (see Stallings, 1993, for a description of items for birth-3 in these tests). The SPD Foundation offer
