Saturday, November 12, 2011

A PERSONAL RESEARCH JOURNEY

In the next several weeks I will embark upon a personal research simulation regarding the topic of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), a neurological disorder that is commonly recognized by the brain’s inability to integrate, process, and respond to certain information received from the body’s five basic sensory systems.   My goal is to bring a deeper awareness about its origin and prevalence among young children to the fore-front of the early educational field.    My intentions are to discuss (1) the origin and causes of SPD; (2) its commonality among young children of preschool and school age; and (3) the available resources for addressing the care needed for children with this diagnosis within an educational environment.  The success of my research will expectantly produce credible information that will aid in (1) a reduction in negative behaviors found in the classroom environments associated with children who demonstrate SPD behaviors;  (2) bring SPD awareness to educators so that professional development can be implemented to address this diagnosis in young children within classroom environments, and (3) provide necessary assistance through resources regarding  SPD children and families.

My personal and professional reason for choosing SPD as a research simulation topic is because my son has been diagnosed with SPD, and a deeper understanding of the condition will provide me with the insight to better care for him as well as other children within the early education environment who have the potential for SPD.

Here is a link to an interesting resource regarding Sensory Integration Therapy: http://www.sensoryprocessingdisorder.info/sensory-integration-therapy.html
Although not considered a scholarly resource, this blog site has numerous entries that will enlighten ones awareness about Sensory Processing concerns in children, as well as provide additional links that might prove to be very helpful.

3 comments:

  1. What an interesting and important topic! Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) effects so many children and is so misunderstood. It is a neurological disorder that is recognized by the brain’s inability to integrate, process, and respond to certain information received from the body’s five basic sensory systems. I have worked with children who have this disorder, and it is fascinating, frustrating, and completely able to integrate strategies into a typical classroom setting. Thank you for the link to additional information and resources. I'm sure your son is an amazing person and you will be better able to help him and his caregivers so he can develop to his fullest potential.

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  2. Your topic is interesting. I fear that many children with SPD often slip under the radar and it is important that we, as early childhood professionals, are more educated about the condition. This way, we will be able to better serve our students and families that are affected by this disorder. I think it's amazing that you are pursuing this topic to better serve your son and his teachers throughout his education. The more you know about what will benefit him, the more he will grow and develop into a great student.

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  3. I'm not familiar with this topic. I admire your adoration and pursuit of this topic. You will be able to help your son grow into an excellent young man while sharing your knowledge with other professionals. I look forward to following your research.

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Teachers Are Like ...

  • Light Bulbs--bringing good things to light.
  • Locksmiths--unlocking our future with keys of knowledge.
  • Farmers--sowing seeds of knowledge into fertile minds.

EDUCATION COMES IN SO MANY DIFFERENT WAYS

Depending on your topic and regardless of your credentials, you can teach someone about something. Discover what you do best, nurture it, and pass it on!