Sensory Integration Education

Each month we take a look at the latest SI research and research of topical interest - this month, we have a focus on food, eating and sensory issues.

The Influence of Food Sensory Properties on Eating Behaviours in Children with Down Syndrome

This new study investigated sensory properties in the eating patterns of children with Down Syndrome. The researchers found that food texture impacted the eating behaviours of study participants. In addition, the importance of other sensory attributes was identified, with the appearance of food affecting younger children and taste/flavour attributes of more importance to the older children.

Autistic Traits and Eating Behaviors in Chinese Preschoolers: Role of Sensory Profiles and Home Environment

This new study investigated eating behaviours in autistic preschoolers. The researchers found that sensory differences impacted the eating behaviours of this population and found that a nurturing home environment can have a modifying impact. This emphasises the importance of parent support and guidance in this area.

Extreme Sensory Processing Patterns Show a Complex Association with Depression, and Impulsivity, Alexithymia, and Hopelessness

This new study investigated sensory processing differences in individuals with skin-picking disorder (dermatillomania). The adolescent/adult sensory profile was used in this study to measure sensory differences in participants and the researchers found that sensory sensitivity and sensation-avoiding scores were elevated in individuals with skin-picking disorder compared to a control group.

Exploring the Presence and Impact of Sensory Differences in Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder

This new study investigated sensory processing differences in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD). The researchers found that sensory differences impacted on the daily lives of study participants with DCD with their parents more likely to report that their children’s sensory avoidances and sensitivities, as well as their fascinations and cravings, impacted their daily lives.

Relationship Between Directly Observed Sensory Reactivity Differences and Classroom Behaviors of Autistic Children

This new study investigated the link between sensory differences and classroom behaviours of autistic children. The researchers found a strong positive correlation (p<0.5) between sensory reactivity differences and behaviours that impede learning.

Association Between Sensory Reactivity and Feeding Problems in School-aged Children: Inpros Study

This recent study investigated the association between sensory reactivity (SR) and feeding problems in children aged 3–7 years. The researchers found a strong correlation between the association between taste/smell SR and feeding problems in study participants.

Loss of Control Eating in Children Is Associated with Altered Cortical and Subcortical Brain Structure

This recent study investigated loss of control (LOC) of eating in children age 7-12 years. The study which used neuroimaging (MRI scans) as part of the data collection found that children with LOC-eating had lower grey matter volume in subcortical regions associated with memory and regulation of eating behaviour.

‘Hearing Their Voice’: The Experiences of Physical Education with Pupils Diagnosed with Severe Learning Disabilities

This study investigated the attitudes and opinions of pupils with severe learning disabilities towards their experiences of physical education (PE) lessons. Trampolining and swimming lessons were amongst the top choices of study participants whilst some indicated that they disliked team sports due to sensory overload.

From Classroom to Life: Gender Differences in the Persistent Effect of Learning Disabilities on Adult Depressive Symptoms

This new study investigated the association between adolescent Learning Disabilities (LD) and adult depressive symptoms. The researchers found a strong positive correlation between LD and depressive symptoms as an adult in female study participants.

Relationships among Alexithymia, Psychological Distress, and Disordered Eating Behaviors in Adolescents

This new study investigated the associations between alexithymia (difficulty experiencing, identifying, and expressing emotions), psychological distress, and disordered eating behaviours in adolescents. The researchers found significant positive associations between alexithymia and emotional eating and uncontrolled eating.

Finger Food Meals as a Means of Improving Mealtimes for People with Motoric Eating Difficulties: A Pilot Study

This new pilot study investigated the provision of finger food meals as a way of improving mealtimes for older people with motor difficulties. The researchers found many benefits of the option of providing finger food in care homes which included less reliance on carers to cut food, and increased opportunity for social interaction at mealtimes as less effort went into the motion of eating or trying to use cutlery.