Author Description

This book presents an example of a sensory integration-based early intervention program that uses a team approach and has been the model for programs elsewhere. No doubt the contents of this 214-page professional resource will prove to be invaluable to occupational and physical therapists who read them. In this manual, the Milestones program is delineated by 14 different authors who are experts in the fields of education, as well as occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Created at the Ayres Clinic in Torrance, California, this program was designed to use sensory integration principles to facilitate all areas of a young child's development. Children who participate in this program engage in activities that challenge their ability to adapt appropriately to incoming sensory information with successful, organized responses. The Ayres Clinic is a treatment center founded by Dr. A. Jean Ayres, the pioneer of sensory integration theory and treatment techniques. She was the first to develop the concept that sensory integration influences more complex learning and behavior. This resource begins with an outline of sensory integration and the effects of impaired sensory integration on the normal development of a child. It briefly identifies the principles of sensory integration treatment and other theoretical frameworks that are influential to the design and implementation of the program. Also delineated are the structure, environment, staff, materials, equipment, and activities that can be used to foster development of the child. One chapter is devoted exclusively to describing more than fifty activities. Another includes a discussion of the ways in which the staff works as a team and in collaboration with families to manage this program. Case examples illustrate the progress of three children who participated in Milestones. Appendixes contain suggestions concerning forms and resources for materials and equipment.