Module II: Assessment of Sensory Motor Problems in Asperger’s Syndrome

Part I: Issues Pertaining to Assessment

Detection In the Birth Through Three Population

Parents who have concerns about the development of their infants and toddlers can have access to qualified professionals from an early intervention program. Early intervention, established by IDEA, is the name of the federally mandated program that provides services for the birth through three populations. Sometimes developmental concerns at birth are obvious, such as in the cases of children with Spina Bifida or Down Syndrome. Children with these diagnoses usually meet the specific criteria necessary to receive early intervention services.

However, if a child’s diagnosis is not obvious, and their problems do not initially meet specific criteria, the process of detection and receiving appropriate services might be delayed. Parents can become frustrated because they might not know what is wrong, but can describe the behaviors that are bothersome or that worry them. For example, they might see odd responses to sensory stimuli, such as extreme fussiness, crying when diapered, or repeated gagging to the introduction of textured foods. Head banging in the crib or against the floor or excessive body rocking might also be observed.

This is a story of early detection, assessment and intervention.

Carol, the mother of three-year-old fraternal twins knew something was wrong with her son Bryan when he was 4 months old. He was overly sensitive to bath water and to attempts to give him solid foods. She sought help from her pediatrician, but was told not to worry. Nonetheless, when Bryan was four months of age, Carol persisted in her search for someone who could give her some answers. She learned of a local early intervention team that included occupational therapists trained in sensory integration treatment and evaluation. After observing the baby and discussing his behavior with the parents it was felt that Bryan had a disorder of sensory integration.

Bryan manifested dysfunction of sensory integration in several ways: He avoided touch sensations, such as the feeling of sand, grass and snow, gagged on solid foods; had difficulty learning to change surfaces while walking; pushed his head on the rug and walked around in circles a lot; and threw toys out of frustration because he did not know how to play with them. Carol read as much information as she could. “It took me about six months to feel comfortable with his diagnosis and understand the implications,” she said.

Carol feels that because of therapy, many of Bryan’s initial symptoms have all but disappeared. She is delighted that now at age three, he enjoys the feeling of sand, grass and snow, and is eating a greater variety of foods. He plays more easily with toys and his balance problem has improved. “Bryan really loves the water this year. He was running in the waves and we were not holding him. He had perfect balance!” ⁵

The importance of early detection and recognition of a sensory motor problem could not be over emphasized. Temple Grandin, a well-known author and speaker, is diagnosed with Higher Functioning Autism/Asperger Syndrome. She wrote about her experiences as a young child.

“[At age three]…tantrums also occurred when I became tired or stressed by too much noise, such as horns going off at a birthday party. My behavior was like a tripping circuit breaker. One minute I was fine, and the next minute I was on the floor kicking and screaming like a crazed wildcat. ….Rocking and spinning were other ways to shut out the world when I became overloaded with too much noise. Rocking made me feel calm. It was like taking an addictive drug. The more I did it, the more I wanted to do it. My mother and my teachers would stop me so I would get back in touch with the rest of the world. “ (p. 44)⁶

In Temple Grandin’s account, her sensory and motor needs were misunderstood. She strongly believes that early intervention is very important.⁶ Although she did not receive formal services from an early intervention program, she had strong support, understanding and guidance from some of the adults in her early life, including her governess.

Previous | Next