Science of sensory rooms and aids for autism

Sensory issues associated with ASD: 1.     Hypersensitivity to sensory input: Individuals with ASD may be overly sensitive to certain types of sensory input, such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. 2.     Hyposensitivity to sensory input: Some individuals with ASD may be under-sensitive to sensory input, meaning that they may not respond to stimuli in the same way as others. 3.     Sensory-seeking behavior: Some individuals with ASD may seek out certain types of sensory input, such as spinning, rocking, or bouncing. 4.     Unusual responses to sensory input: Some individuals with ASD may have unusual or idiosyncratic responses to sensory input, such as covering their ears or humming to block out noise.

Biological basis of sensory factors

“Atypical behavioural responses to sensory information” are common across the spectrum, as 96% of children with ASD report hyper- and hypo-sensitivities, which can range from mild to severe. For those who are in distress from sensory stimuli and are unable to communicate it, “self-injurious and aggressive behaviour” may be outlets. Another common feature of autistic individuals involves language deficits, literature suggests differences in early auditory pathways between autistic and neurotypical children. Furthermore, adults with autism have diminished ability to selectively focus on a specific sound source. In terms of tactile sensory information, there are “clinical complaints” around light touches to the head and body. However, a study on tactile sensitivity showed hypersensitivity to vibrotactile and thermal stimuli but not light touch in adults. There are conflicting studies for visual stimuli, some show no differences between autistic individual and controls in ‘low vs high spatial frequencies and motion processing, whereas others show decreased contrast detection ability for visual stimuli and differences in “second order (texture-defined) motion processing but intact first-order (luminance-defined) processing, suggesting difficulties with effective integration of incoming stimuli that is magnified with more nuanced tasks”. Autistic children respond “more robustly” to “neutral and detailed, high-spatial frequency information” and “less robustly” to rapid low-frequency processing that is common in social tasks. One study using an “oddball paradigm” found that in passive perception conditions children with autism did not differ measurably from controls, but there was a larger response to deviant stimuli while performing an active counting task Another study found similar results: increasing “attention and capacity demands” of a task lead to physiological and behavioural differences in individuals with autism and controls. A “flash-beep” illusion shows that multiple tones and one flash can be perceived as multiple flashes, and the time duration between stimuli that produce the illusion are broader than in neurotypical individuals. Inefficiencies in MSI (multi-sensory integration) are also found in speech comprehension and production. In terms of social communication, the inability to fall back” on certain sets of sensory stimuli in the presence of challenging environmental stimuli may contribute to these deficits that are well-characterised in this disorder. Anecdotally, parents have reported that children with autism function well in controlled environments but not in “challenging sensory environments” (grocery stores, birthday parties). This study mentions some “behavioural intervention trials” (computerised learning modules, self-regulation programs) that need further study. Given this mixed evidence, we aim to suggest tools to aid individuals with autism and minimise its limiting impacts preventing people from living their lives free from discomfort. References: Sensory Processing in Autism: A Review of Neurophysiologic Findings – PMC

Sensory toys

Jumbo fidget toy

This toy is bigger than most, but it’s durable and reusable. The popping sounds might be distracting, but the toy has 100 bubbles that will keep boredom and fidgeting at a minimum. The colors of the toy are soothing for children with ADHD and autism. The toy is made from silicone, so it’s safe and durable for children. You can wash it as often as you need without worrying about breaking the toy.

Dodecagon

This fidget toy is recommended for all ages. It’s a 12-sided cube, and, despite its look, it’s lightweight and pocket-sized. The Dodecagon is suitable for autistic children who have multiple ways to fidget. The cube has plenty of tools to keep hands and fingers busy, such as an integrated stress ball, gears, a joystick, and switches. Some functions are noisy, so the Dodecagon is not great for the classroom. Furthermore, it might be too much for some children and has too many options, causing distraction instead of focus.

Weighted blankets/compression therapy swing

Comfort weights have been proven to calm those with ASD by producing a hug-like calming effect through compression of cocooned sides like swaddling, combined with the swinging motion to provide vestibular sensory input. This creates a sense of balance and spatial orientation for the purpose of coordinating movement as well as benefitting sensory and tactile input.

Materials and lights to equip sensory rooms

Sensory rooms are designed to provide a variety of sensory experiences, including soft lighting, textured materials, and soothing sounds. They can be equipped with interactive devices such as bubble tubes and fiber optic lights.

Balance tools

A balance beam is a wonderful basic piece of equipment for any sensory room. There are take-apart versions readily available on the market, but consider other options depending on space. Balance boards, stepping stones, and E-Z steppers are great alternatives that are space savers and portable.

Northern galaxy light aurora projector

Turn the ceiling into the cosmos with this projector light. It offers a night light experience that provides a glow in the room. Since it’s not too bright, it will not keep you awake when you are sleeping with it. The stars move slowly, helping to provide a relaxing experience. Depending on the individual, this may create an overwhelming experience, thus it is crucial to understand the individuals needs and appropriately identify the assistance they may require, for instance a more subtle aid like earplugs.

Vibes high fidelity concert earplugs

These earplugs are ideal for keeping the environment quieter. You can use them at concerts and in other places where loud music and noises are going to be present. However, they can also work well when you need to significantly reduce noises so that it is easy to concentrate or for reduced stress. Since Emergo has environments proven to enhance calm and relaxation, with access to pools and a forest, individuals can be immerse themselves in these settings with these earplugs to reduce their anxiety levels.

Sensory seating

There are many different types of sensory swings you could put into a sensory room for your child! Some are platforms or just fabric. You’ll want to explore what type you think your child will like best. Check out the Harkla pod swing and compression swing. A swing is a great way to give them vestibular input, which oftentimes can provide calm, as well as help your child learn where their body ends. Some sort of special seating for your child is a great idea for your sensory room. There are many kinds of sensory seating to consider depending on the goal.  For something that can be set on a regular chair, there are wiggle seats available. In terms of providing compression, you could consider the Harkla Hug, which the individuals can sit in and get the feeling of a hug!

Assistive devices

Assistive technology (AT) includes a huge range of tools that can be helpful or even life-changing for people with autism. Defined under the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 (Public Law 100-407), AT can be any item that “is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.”1
  • Low-tech AT includes anything that needs no electricity; think weighted vests, sensory balls, or picture boards.
  • Mid-tech AT is simple enough to be relatively inexpensive and easy to operate. Examples include battery-operated sensory toys, visual timers, and social skills videos.
  • High-tech AT is digital technology and can include anything from augmentative communication technology for non-verbal people to robots built to increase social skills in children on the spectrum.

Assistive technology for social skills and communication

  • One of the most important uses of AT is in providing the means for people on the spectrum to communicate their thoughts and needs.
  • According to some estimates, as many as 35% of children with autism are non-verbal.3 While this number may be an exaggeration, a very large percentage of people on the spectrum have difficulty with verbal communication and virtually all people with autism have at least some difficulty with social communication.
Low-Tech
  • At the low-tech end, there are low-cost, easy-to-use tools such as picture boards and picture cards, including those created by PECS—a highly-regarded organization whose products have been used in schools and by therapists for many years.
https://pecsusa.com/pecs/
  • At the mid-range, there are apps for both augmentative communication and speech therapy. None of these apps were created specifically for people with autism—after all, there are many reasons why a child or adult might not be able to speak—but they are extremely useful and cost-efficient for someone who is unable to use expressive speech effectively.
  • Two examples of speech-generating apps include:
  • Proloquo2Go by Assistiveware, which features over 10,000 words, is easy to customize for physical or cognitive needs and can be used in many different languages. Compatible with iOS; costs about $250.
  • TouchChat HD by Prentke Romich Company, which provides English and Spanish options and allows the user to choose a voice that fits their personality. Compatible with iOS; costs about $150.
  • Apps for speech therapy are intended not only to substitute for the human voice but are also to help build speech and language skills. Two highly regarded options include Articulation Station and LAMP Words for Life.

Assistive technology for learning and executive functioning

Some studies have found that around 30% of children with ASD also have intellectual disability.4 More than 30% are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and up to 40% experience some level of anxiety. These issues, added to the core symptoms of autism (which include speech, social, and sensory challenges) create some significant issues in school and in the workplace. Most significant are: Difficulties with processing spoken and written language (including challenges with some types of math such as word problems)
  • Sensory challenges that can make fluorescent lights, buzzers, and other ordinary noises painful and sitting still particularly difficult
  • Executive functioning difficulties making it hard to manage schedules, stay on task, and plan projects
  • Assistive technology can help with all of these issues, whether at school, at home, or in the workplace.

Assistive technology for sensory challenges

Sensory challenges in people with autism can result in over- or under-responsiveness to sensory input. In other words, people with autism may under-react to physical injury but find school buzzers to be painful. Sensory therapists seek to “regulate” the sensory systems using assistive technology while teachers, parents, and adults with autism tend to look for tools to deaden sound and calm the nervous system. Most adaptive technology for sensory challenges is low or medium-tech. Therapists may use trampolines, swings, brushes, balls, and similar tools to help over-responsive sensory systems become less sensitive. Classroom teachers and paraprofessionals often use noise-canceling headphones, weighted vests, and tinted glasses to help students avoid excessive sound and light. To calm the nervous system, teachers and parents may use ball pits, weighted blankets and vests, or “squeeze machines” to provide tactile input. Apps are commonly used for sensory “breaks.” These tend to be simple tools that allow you to do things like pop bubbles, meditate, follow images with your eyes, or play repetitive music. While not necessarily created for people on the spectrum, such apps can be very helpful. A few such apps include:
  • Brainworks
  • Miracle Modus
  • Heatpad
  1. Harkin T. S.2561 – 100th Congress (1987-1988). Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988.
  2. Georgia Tech Tools for Life. What is assistive technology?
  3. Rose V, Trembath D, Keen D, Paynter J. The proportion of minimally verbal children with autism spectrum disorder in a community-based early intervention programme. J Intellect Disabil Res. 2016;60(5):464-477. doi:10.1111/jir.12284
  4. Thurm A, Farmer C, Salzman E, Lord C, Bishop S. State of the Field: Differentiating Intellectual Disability From Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry. 2019 Jul 30;10:526. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00526
  5. Alnajjar F, Cappuccio M, Renawi A, et al. Personalized robot interventions for autistic children: An automated methodology for attention assessment. Int J of Soc Robotics. 2020. doi:10.1007/s12369-020-00639-8
  6. Dawson C. Socially assistive robot helps children with autism. USC Viterbi School of Engineering.
  7. Waltz E. IEEE Spectrum. Therapy robot teaches social skills to children with autism.
  8. Ham B. Personalized “deep learning” equips robots for autism therapy. MIT News.

Safety devices

Apart from sensory challenges, social skills, and making sure the individuals develop learning and executive functioning along with communication, Safety is also a big issue. Many children with autism, and some adults with more severe autism, are at risk for eloping (running away). Children with autism can be very good at manipulating locks, and even “babyproofing” may not be enough to keep them indoors. Thus, in addition to ordinary door chains, baby gates, and latches, many families (and some group homes and schools) use ID bracelets and tracking devices to maintain safety. There are a number of companies that produce ID bracelets, tags, cards, and trackers. They provide name, address, and contact info and, in some cases, automatically connect with first responders. All are quite similar, however, and the choice depends on your level of need and your budget. Products include: Where they allow you to customize their own bands and these maybe just like any other bands in your arm, or they maybe digital Some brands such as Theora Care, provides Not only GPS tracking, but also allows caretakers to monitor any sorts of behavourial changes, along with small physical changes like body temperature accurately with their watches and they support a lot of other functions as well.

Summer camp proposals: calming kits

During summer camp, the outdoor environment alongside assistive  tools can be utilised to bring numerous benefits to autistic individuals:
  • Swings with light colours and equip the leather seats or the ropes attaching the seats
  • Trampolines with suck textured materials may also be helpful.
  • Sensory play equipment like sand tables, water tables, sensory bins, and tactile materials like kinetic sand, playdough, and slime can help stimulate and engage the senses of autistic individuals. Keep them nearby would be beneficial.
  • Bubble Machines: Bubble machines can provide a visually stimulating activity that can be calming and fun for autistic individuals.
  • Musical Instruments: Musical instruments like drums, xylophones, and chimes can provide auditory stimulation and a way for autistic individuals to express themselves creatively.
  • Board games like dungeons and dragons has also been quite popular amongst autistic adults and maybe used an activity while sitting outdoors
  •  Take individuals to forest areas and using noise cancelling headphones to calm them down is also helpful.
  • Activities related to painting can also be stimulating, such as asking them to draw their favourite animals or drawing imaginary maps of countries and drawing paint their dreams also might encourage them to be more creative.
  • Equip safety devices mentioned in the above pages, and take taking them to places where they can interact with animals has can have calming effects.

Therapy – Progressive muscle relaxation

Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is suggested to be an effective exercise for individuals with autism. Muscle tension can be seen at the earliest stages of distress. It is almost a reflex reaction – the body’s way of responding to potential danger and ensuring safety. Tension release is crucial as muscles staying tense for long periods of time tires other reactions of the body and even promote stress related disorders (Shaw et al., 2018). In relation to ASD, since it is a spectrum, the physical representation of autistic people can vary drastically from having high to low muscle tone (Kayla Darnbrough, 2022). In other words, they are likely to experience more trouble with muscle tension. In addition, due to impairments in social communication, autistic people tend to tense their muscles in response to stimuli and not know how to reduce that tension (Swenson, 2021). As a result, the tension stays, increasing stress and anxiety. PMR, developed by Edmund Jacobson, instructs a person to go through various muscle groups, first tensing and relaxing them, then eventually relaxing without tensing (Lynch, 2019). This can help detect and reverse muscle tension during stressful situations as well as support relaxation on a daily basis. Being able to release muscle tension and relax is essential to many other bodily functions and can initiate a calming effect. Evidence indicates that PMR is associated with a decrease of aggressive behaviors, while being easily acquirable by members of the autistic community (low-functioning and high-functioning alike) (Lynne Mullins & Christian, 2001. Lau, 2017). Dr. June Groden, a pioneer in the eld, has had over 20 years of success with their program that is based on PMR (2021). However, due to the limited resources available regarding the subject matter, further exploration is needed. Lau suggests there is a possibility that PMR might trier repetitive or stereotyped behaviors in low-function autistic individuals (2017). Diaphragmatic breathing Diaphragmatic breathing is another evidence-based activity that can help promote relaxation in autistic people. American psychologist Stephen Porges understood autism to be a certain deficit in parts of the brain including the limbic system, which is responsible for social-emotional behavior and regulating the autonomic nervous systems. Malfunctioning of the limbic system induces sub-optimal breathing, leading to decreased oxygen levels and abnormal blood ow (Goodman, 2019). Ming et al suggest there is a low baseline parasympathetic activity with evidence of elevated sympathetic tone in autistic individuals (2005). They tend to experience the flight/fright freeze stress response frequently throughout their daily activities. Therefore, diaphragmatic breathing is helpful as it plays a role in activating the parasympathetic system (Goodman, 2019). It decreases metabolic demands and increases oxygen supply to all parts of the body, including the brain. It can lead to a reversal of physiological events related to sympathetic arousal and can effectively calm the autonomic nervous systems (Mirgain et al., 2018). As such, autistic individuals can use diaphragmatic breathing to reduce stress and relax. Further techniques: Autistic individuals often suffer from sensory issues, which is one of the main reasons behind the creation of a sensory room. Many autistic people experience hypersensitivity, which is a main cause of stress and anxiety (Sensory issues). Thus, an escape plan may help the individual to regain control and reduce stimulation. Researchers found that symptoms of autism are not related to levels of physical activity. Panic, somatic, and anxiety symptoms in autistic people are also seen to be inversely associated with minutes spent in vigorous exercise (Glock, 2023). The same effects can be seen in adults are to be determined.   References Bennie, M. (2020, June 14). Calming strategies to support an autistic person. Autism Awareness. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://autismawarenesscentre.com/calming-strategies-to-support-a-person-with-autism/ Glock, M. (2023, February 3). Exercise may help to lower levels of anxiety in autism. Autism Research Institute. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.autism.org/exercise-may-help-to-lower-levels-of-anxiety-in-autism/ Goodman, D. M. (2019, August 23). How belly breathing can help children with autism. marrero. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.marreropsychology.com/single-post/2019/08/22/how-belly-breathing-can-help-ch ildren-with-autism Kayla Darnbrough, P. T. (2022, December 5). Low muscle tone and autism: A physiotherapist’s overview. NAPA. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://napacentre.com.au/hypotonia-and-asd/ Lau, M. T. E. (2017). Treatment Effects of Chan-based Mind Body Exercise and Progressive Muscle Relaxation on Impulse Control and Cognitive Flexibility of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Order No. 10672408). Available from Prouest Dissertations & eses Global. (1994437640). https://proxy.library.mcgill.ca/login?url=https://www.prouest.com/dissertations-theses/trea tment-eects-chan-based-mind-body-exercise/docview/1994437640/se-2 Lynch, C. (2019, June 3). Relaxation training for kids on the autism spectrum. Psychology Today. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/autism-and-anxiety/201906/relaxation-training-kid s-the-autism-spectrum Lynne Mullins, J., & Christian, L. A. (2001). e eects of progressive relaxation training on the disruptive behavior of a boy with autism. Research in Developmenal Disabilities, 22(6), 449–462. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0891-4222(01)00083-x Marrero, C. (2019, August 22). How belly breathing can help children with autism. YouTube. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W30Vc0bqF6w Ming, X., Julu, P. O. O., Brimacombe, M., Connor, S., & Daniels, M. L. (2005). Reduced cardiac parasympathetic activity in children with autism. Brain and Development, 27(7), 509–516. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.braindev.2005.01.003 Mirgain, S. A., Singles, J., & Hampton, A. (2018, July 27). Veterans Aairs. Go to VA.gov. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/diaphragmatic-breathing.asp Sensory issues. Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-issues Shaw, W., Labott-Smith, S., Burg, M. M., Hostinar, C., Alen, N., van Tilburg, M. A. L., Berntson, G. G., Tovian, S. M., & Spirito, M. (2018, November 1). Stress effects on the body. American Psychological Association. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body Stress & Anxiety Reduction. Autism Research Institute. (2021, April 1). Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.autism.org/treatment/stress-anxiety-reduction/ Swenson, C. (2021, March 30). Autism and muscle tension. YouTube. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meuSZNDAjIA Authors: Haleema Ayub – haleema.ayub@mail.mcgill.ca Nancy Huo – nancy.huo@mail.mcgill.ca Mustaqeem Rahman – mustaqeem.rahman@mail.mcgill.ca Annaliese Bissell – Annaliese.bissell@mail.mcgill.ca Science des salles sensorielles et des aides pour l’autisme Comprendre l’autisme Le trouble du spectre de l’autisme (TSA) est un trouble neurodéveloppemental qui affecte la communication, l’interaction sociale et le comportement. Les individus atteints de TSA font face à une grande variété de défis dans la vie quotidienne, y compris des difficultés en matière de communication, de traitement sensoriel et de socialisation. Au Canada, la prévalence du TSA a augmenté ces dernières années. Selon les estimations les plus récentes de l’Agence de la santé publique du Canada, la prévalence du TSA au Canada est d’environ 1 enfant sur 66. Qu’est-ce que la recherche suggère comme étant le plus bénéfique ? Tandis que des preuves convergentes suggèrent que les enfants autistes bénéficient d’un sentiment de contrôle, il existe un manque de données sur l’utilisation optimale des salles sensorielles. Les thérapies comportementales sont les plus largement acceptées parmi les professionnels de la santé, mais leur efficacité est mise en doute. Le renforcement positif est une autre pratique connue qui peut être assez difficile pour certains enfants, d’où un virage actuel vers la thérapie par le jeu. Caractéristiques communes des outils d’assistance : Améliorer la proprioception Renforcer le sens vestibulaire Pratiquer la stimulation tactile Problèmes sensoriels associés au TSA : Hypersensibilité aux stimuli sensoriels : Les individus avec TSA peuvent être extrêmement sensibles à certains types de stimuli sensoriels, comme les bruits forts, les lumières vives ou certaines textures. Hyposensibilité aux stimuli sensoriels : Certains individus avec TSA peuvent être sous-sensibles aux stimuli sensoriels, ce qui signifie qu’ils ne réagissent pas aux stimuli de la même manière que les autres. Comportements de recherche sensorielle : Certains individus avec TSA peuvent rechercher certains types de stimuli sensoriels, tels que tourner sur eux-mêmes, se balancer ou sauter. Réponses inhabituelles aux stimuli sensoriels : Certains individus avec TSA peuvent avoir des réponses inhabituelles ou idiosyncrasiques aux stimuli sensoriels, comme se couvrir les oreilles ou fredonner pour bloquer le bruit. Base biologique des facteurs sensoriels Les « réponses comportementales atypiques à l’information sensorielle » sont courantes sur le spectre, car 96 % des enfants avec TSA signalent des hyper- et hypo-sensibilités, qui peuvent varier de légères à graves. Pour ceux qui sont en détresse à cause de stimuli sensoriels et qui ne peuvent pas le communiquer, des « comportements auto-agressifs et agressifs » peuvent être des exutoires. Une autre caractéristique commune des individus autistes concerne les déficits linguistiques, la littérature suggère des différences dans les voies auditives précoces entre les enfants autistes et neurotypiques. De plus, les adultes avec autisme ont une capacité réduite à se concentrer sélectivement sur une source sonore spécifique. Il y a des études contradictoires pour les stimuli visuels, certains ne montrent pas de différences entre les individus autistes et les témoins dans les « fréquences spatiales faibles vs élevées et le traitement du mouvement », tandis que d’autres montrent une capacité de détection de contraste réduite pour les stimuli visuels. Les enfants autistes répondent « plus robustement » aux informations « neutres et détaillées, de haute fréquence spatiale » et « moins robustement » au traitement à basse fréquence rapide qui est courant dans les tâches sociales. Jouets sensoriels Jumbo fidget toy Ce jouet est plus grand que la plupart, mais il est durable et réutilisable. Les bruits de claquement peuvent être distrayants, mais le jouet a 100 bulles qui garderont l’ennui et l’agitation à un minimum. Les couleurs du jouet sont apaisantes pour les enfants atteints de TDAH et d’autisme. Dodécagone Ce jouet d’agitation est recommandé pour tous les âges. Il s’agit d’un cube à 12 faces et, malgré son apparence, il est léger et tient dans la poche. Le Dodécagone convient aux enfants autistes qui ont plusieurs façons de s’agiter. Le cube dispose de nombreux outils pour occuper les mains et les doigts, tels qu’une balle anti-stress intégrée, des engrenages, un joystick et des interrupteurs. Certaines fonctions sont bruyantes, donc le Dodécagone n’est pas idéal pour la salle de classe. Couvertures lestées / balançoire de thérapie par compression Les poids de confort ont été prouvés pour apaiser les personnes atteintes de TSA en produisant un effet calmant semblable à une étreinte grâce à la compression des côtés en forme de cocon, combinée au mouvement de balancement pour fournir une entrée sensorielle vestibulaire. Matériaux et lumières pour équiper les salles sensorielles Les salles sensorielles sont conçues pour fournir une variété d’expériences sensorielles, y compris un éclairage doux, des matériaux texturés et des sons apaisants. Elles peuvent être équipées de dispositifs interactifs tels que des tubes à bulles et des lumières à fibres optiques. Outils d’équilibre Une poutre d’équilibre est un merveilleux équipement de base pour toute salle sensorielle. Il existe des versions démontables facilement disponibles sur le marché. Projecteur de lumière aurora de la galaxie du Nord Transformez le plafond en cosmos avec ce projecteur de lumière. Il offre une expérience de veilleuse qui fournit une lueur dans la pièce. Bouchons d’oreille Vibes haute fidélité pour concerts Ces bouchons d’oreille sont idéaux pour rendre l’environnement plus calme. Vous pouvez les utiliser lors de concerts et dans d’autres endroits où la musique forte et les bruits vont être présents. Cependant, ils peuvent également fonctionner bien lorsque vous devez réduire considérablement les bruits pour qu’il soit facile de se concentrer ou pour réduire le stress. Puisque Emergo offre des environnements propices au calme et à la détente, avec accès à des piscines et une forêt, les individus peuvent s’immerger dans ces lieux avec ces bouchons d’oreille pour réduire leur niveau d’anxiété. Sièges sensoriels Il existe plusieurs types de balançoires sensorielles que vous pouvez installer dans une salle sensorielle pour votre enfant ! Certains sont des plateformes ou simplement du tissu. Vous voudrez explorer quel type vous pensez que votre enfant préférera. Jetez un œil à la balançoire en capsule Harkla et à la balançoire de compression. Une balançoire est un excellent moyen de fournir une entrée vestibulaire, qui peut souvent apporter du calme, ainsi qu’aider votre enfant à comprendre où se termine son corps. Avoir un siège spécial pour votre enfant est une excellente idée pour votre salle sensorielle. Pour quelque chose qui peut être posé sur une chaise ordinaire, il existe des sièges à bascule. En termes de compression, vous pourriez envisager le Harkla Hug, où les individus peuvent s’asseoir et ressentir la sensation d’une étreinte. Dispositifs d’assistance La technologie d’assistance (TA) comprend une vaste gamme d’outils qui peuvent être utiles, voire révolutionnaires, pour les personnes autistes. TA basse technologie : tout ce qui n’a pas besoin d’électricité ; pensez aux gilets lestés, aux balles sensorielles ou aux tableaux à images. TA moyenne technologie : assez simple pour être relativement bon marché et facile à utiliser. Exemples : jouets sensoriels à piles, minuteurs visuels et vidéos sur les compétences sociales. TA haute technologie : technologie numérique qui peut inclure tout, de la technologie de communication augmentative pour les personnes non verbales aux robots conçus pour augmenter les compétences sociales chez les enfants du spectre autistique. TA pour compétences sociales et communication Une des utilisations les plus importantes de la TA est de fournir aux personnes du spectre les moyens de communiquer leurs pensées et besoins. Selon certaines estimations, jusqu’à 35 % des enfants autistes sont non verbaux. Faible technologie À l’extrémité basse technologie, il existe des outils peu coûteux et faciles à utiliser comme les tableaux à images et les cartes à images, y compris ceux créés par PECS. Technologie pour l’apprentissage et le fonctionnement exécutif Certains défis incluent des difficultés à traiter le langage parlé et écrit, des défis sensoriels qui peuvent rendre les lumières fluorescentes et autres bruits ordinaires douloureux et des difficultés de fonctionnement exécutif. Technologie d’assistance pour les défis sensoriels Les défis sensoriels chez les personnes autistes peuvent entraîner une réactivité excessive ou insuffisante aux stimuli sensoriels. Les thérapeutes sensoriels cherchent à “réguler” les systèmes sensoriels à l’aide de la technologie d’assistance. Dispositifs de sécurité À part les défis sensoriels, les compétences sociales et le développement de l’apprentissage, la sécurité est aussi un enjeu majeur. Beaucoup d’enfants autistes, ainsi que certains adultes avec un autisme plus sévère, sont à risque de fugue. Ces enfants peuvent être très habiles pour manipuler les verrous, donc même des mesures de « sécurisation pour bébé » peuvent être insuffisantes. Par conséquent, en plus des chaînes de porte ordinaires, des barrières pour bébés et des loquets, beaucoup de familles (ainsi que certaines résidences collectives et écoles) utilisent des bracelets d’identification et des dispositifs de localisation. Il y a plusieurs entreprises qui offrent ces produits, tous assez similaires. Le choix dépend de vos besoins et de votre budget. Produits inclus : Alert Me Bands AWAARE Project Lifesaver International Certains offrent même des fonctions de suivi GPS et de surveillance des changements comportementaux et physiques. Propositions pour les camps d’été : trousses apaisantes L’environnement extérieur et les outils d’assistance peuvent offrir de nombreux avantages : Balançoires avec des couleurs douces Trampolines avec des matériaux texturés Équipement de jeu sensoriel Machines à bulles Instruments de musique Jeux de société comme Donjons et Dragons Visites en forêt avec des écouteurs anti-bruit Activités de peinture Thérapies Relaxation musculaire progressive Cette technique peut aider à détendre les muscles et à réduire la tension, ce qui est particulièrement utile pour les personnes autistes. Respiration diaphragmatique Cette activité basée sur des preuves peut également promouvoir la relaxation. Autres techniques Les personnes autistes peuvent souffrir de problèmes sensoriels, donc la création d’une salle sensorielle peut être bénéfique. L’exercice vigoureux peut également jouer un rôle dans la réduction de l’anxiété et du stress. References Bennie, M. (2020, June 14). Calming strategies to support an autistic person. Autism Awareness. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://autismawarenesscentre.com/calming-strategies-to-support-a-person-with-autism/ Glock, M. (2023, February 3). Exercise may help to lower levels of anxiety in autism. Autism Research Institute. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.autism.org/exercise-may-help-to-lower-levels-of-anxiety-in-autism/ Goodman, D. M. (2019, August 23). How belly breathing can help children with autism. marrero. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.marreropsychology.com/single-post/2019/08/22/how-belly-breathing-can-help-ch ildren-with-autism Kayla Darnbrough, P. T. (2022, December 5). Low muscle tone and autism: A physiotherapist’s overview. NAPA. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://napacentre.com.au/hypotonia-and-asd/ Lau, M. T. E. (2017). Treatment Effects of Chan-based Mind Body Exercise and Progressive Muscle Relaxation on Impulse Control and Cognitive Flexibility of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Order No. 10672408). Available from Pro uest Dissertations & eses Global. (1994437640). https://proxy.library.mcgill.ca/login?url=https://www.pro uest.com/dissertations-theses/trea tment-e ects-chan-based-mind-body-exercise/docview/1994437640/se-2 Lynch, C. (2019, June 3). Relaxation training for kids on the autism spectrum. Psychology Today. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/autism-and-anxiety/201906/relaxation-training-kid s-the-autism-spectrum Lynne Mullins, J., & Christian, L. A. (2001). e e ects of progressive relaxation training on the disruptive behavior of a boy with autism. Research in Developmen al Disabilities, 22(6), 449–462. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0891-4222(01)00083-x Marrero, C. (2019, August 22). How belly breathing can help children with autism. YouTube. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W30Vc0bqF6w Ming, X., Julu, P. O. O., Brimacombe, M., Connor, S., & Daniels, M. L. (2005). Reduced cardiac parasympathetic activity in children with autism. Brain and Development, 27(7), 509–516. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.braindev.2005.01.003 Mirgain, S. A., Singles, J., & Hampton, A. (2018, July 27). Veterans A airs. Go to VA.gov. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/diaphragmatic-breathing.asp Sensory issues. Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-issues Shaw, W., Labott-Smith, S., Burg, M. M., Hostinar, C., Alen, N., van Tilburg, M. A. L., Berntson, G. G., Tovian, S. M., & Spirito, M. (2018, November 1). Stress effects on the body. American Psychological Association. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body Stress & Anxiety Reduction. Autism Research Institute. (2021, April 1). Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.autism.org/treatment/stress-anxiety-reduction/ Swenson, C. (2021, March 30). Autism and muscle tension. YouTube. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meuSZNDAjIA Auteurs: Haleema Ayub – haleema.ayub@mail.mcgill.ca Nancy Huo – nancy.huo@mail.mcgill.ca Mustaqeem Rahman – mustaqeem.rahman@mail.mcgill.ca Annaliese Bissell – Annaliese.bissell@mail.mcgill.ca