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Our child has recently been diagnosed with sensory integration dysfuntion. It has taken over our lives. She will give up fun activities with friends if the even requires her to wear socks, she now refuses to attend gymnastics class due to the leotard she has to wear, and we encounter "melt downs" every morning due to having to put on clothes that are "too tight" (although those clothes are a size too big). Do you think OT would be beneficial and what types of techniques are used?

Linda King Thomas: The behaviors which are described indicate a Sensory Modulation Disorder (this is a type of sensory integration disorder also known as sensory integration dysfunction). Based on these behaviors your daughter would be a good candidate for sensory integration therapy. Intervention would include parent and child education regarding this diagnosis, therapy intervention and developing a home program of sensory input (sensory diet) to help modulate the over-responsiveness to sensation. A good reference on this subject is the book, Sensational Kids by Lucy Jane Miller. Linda King-Thomas MHS, OTR/L Developmental Therapy Associates 3514 University Drive #8 Durham, NC 27707 919-493-7002 ext.23 www.developmentaltherapy.com

What are your experiences using weighted blankets with children diagnosed

Sue Powell: I have used weighted blankets for children with sensory processing problems only with varied results. Because it is a static sensory input, it only has about 20 minutes of impact on the sensory system before the child will habituate to it. It has been good for helping some children settle enough in that time to help fall asleep for nap time or bed time. If your purposes are for more consistent organization in the day I would try something more dynamic that uses as many large joints as possible (push-ups, jumping, heavy work). I've not had issues with safety precautions but I would only use the blanket with a child at least one year of age. You should be able to decrease the weight in the blanket by removing some of the weights if you are concerned until you see how a child responds.

I am looking for a potty chair for my 4 year old son with c.p I was just lookig to see whats out there

Joshua Alexander, MD: Here are some links to companies who provide adaptive potty chairs and toilets for children who have mobility impairment. http://www.columbiamedical.com/default.cfm?display=toileting http://www.flaghouse.com/search.asp?Category=Special+Populations&SKW=toilet http://www.rifton.com/r/Hygiene/BlueWaveToiletingSystem/index.htm http://www.tumbleforms.com/carpotseat.html http://www.snugseat.com/hygiene.htm After looking through these pages, I encourage you to contact your child?s pediatric occupational and/or physical therapist to schedule an equipment evaluation to discuss your child?s equipment options and to ensure that whatever you eventually purchase will fit your son (and your bathroom!), provide sufficient support, and accommodate your son?s future growth. Best of Luck,