Some people with autism have difficulty processing the information they receive from their senses. They may be over or under-sensitive to sounds or noise, things they see, certain smells or tastes, or things they physically touch. If sensory experiences become too much for them, a person with autism may feel overwhelmed and exhibit behaviours such as withdrawal or meltdown. Some people with autism are ‘sensory-seekers’ and may enjoy focusing on a certain sensory input. For instance, they may really like lights and find stimulation of this sense calming, pleasant and anxiety-reducing. Read our list of the best autism sensory products at Healthcare Pro. Our top three autism sensory products The Wilbarger Protocol is designed to be used in conjunction with an individualized sensory “diet” based on the specific needs of the child and carried out under the guidance of someone familiar with the protocol and trained in sensory integration theory and practice.

If the child is not tolerating the brushing, do NOT force it, not even in the beginning. The cornerstone and number one concept of the sensory integration theory is, CHILD LED and CHILD DIRECTED. The My Sensory Space Detangling Hairbrush is the latest innovation from My Sensory Space. The double-sided bristles work together with a custom designed teething action to gently detangle the toughest knots. And the ergonomic design makes it easy for anyone to use this hairbrush, children and adults alike! Sensory brushing is more effective over bare skin, however if brushing over clothing pull the clothing tight and eliminate bumps

Give parents some leeway as they incorporate this into their busy lives. Remind them it is only for a couple of weeks. Like adding an antibiotic, it is tough at first, but will be over soon. If caregivers can only get four cycles in a day, that is better than nothing. If they are not doing it consistently enough to gauge progress, it might be better to wait until they are able to commit to this program before starting. The Wilbarger Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique (DPPT) & Oral Tactile Technique (OTT), which in the past was referred to as the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol, refers to the specific sensory modulation techniques developed by Patricia Wilbarger, MEd, OTR, FAOTA. Patricia Wilbarger is an occupational therapist and a clinical psychologist who also known for coining the phrase “sensory diet.” She is a leading expert in the area of sensory defensiveness. Simply stated, sensory defensiveness is the over-responsiveness of the protective responses of the nervous system. She is a co-founder of Sensory Integration International, the AVANTI camp, and has published numerous books, articles and videos. She lectures internationally on the topics of sensory defensiveness and sensory integration. Some of these publications, the brushes used in the DPPT protocol, and a list of courses with Patricia Wilbarger can be found at Child Development Media, Inc. Sensory brushing can do several things, and depending on the individual and their sensory preferences or sensory needs, there can be different results following use of a sensory brush.

A sensory brush or brushing program is often indicated for pediatric clients that have sensory dysfunction such as tactile sensitivity, hyperactivity, or general sensory dysregulation. It can increase a child’s ability to optimize their arousal and activity levels as well as decrease sensory defensiveness. The Wilbarger brushing protocol involves the sensory brush, paired with joint compressions, completed in a sequence and according to a schedule. Even though it was only 3-5 minutes each cycle, remembering to do it every 90 minutes was tough. In addition, when I was feeling better, I could not be sure it was the brushing that was affecting me. It could have been a sunny day, my mood was elevated, I had a good night’s rest, and had a good breakfast. It did not harm me, and even if it was a placebo, it was worth it to feel better. Patricia Wilbarger is an occupational therapist and a clinical psychologist who is also known for coining the phrase “ sensory diet.” She is a leading expert in the area of sensory defensiveness (the over-responsiveness of the protective responses of the nervous system).A warm cup of milk, a short yoga sequence, brushing and a bedtime story can prepare all the sensory systems for rest.

By rubbing the brush across the skin, the pressure input targets touch receptors and helps a child organize his/her central nervous system. A sensory brush, or therapy brush, is used as part of the Wilbarger brushing protocol, something that an occupational therapist, trained in sensory integration techniques, may prescribe as part of a home sensory program for your child. On World Autism Awareness Week, we’re highlighting our favourite sensory products that have tremendous benefits for children and adults with autism. Autism isn’t a one-type-fits-all condition and each person with autism is an individual. This being said, most autistic people will experience the world differently than those not living with the condition.Because the treatment does not occur in a bubble, it is difficult to get definitive results and research. What works one day, may not work the next. Much like the use of weighted blankets and compression garments, there is evidence found in the literature, and there is skilled experience from professionals. The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol also known as DPPT is a very specific technique used for tactile defensiveness and sometimes other sensory processing challenges. The technique can be effective, BUT it is misunderstood, and often not taught correctly, and way over used in my professional opinion. Here are some very important points to remember about brushing: Do not let your child brush him/herself...unless they are old enough and competent to be trained to due it with the specific technique and protocol. Difficulty with self regulation– including paying attention, transitioning between activities, motor coordination, functional communication, safe behaviors

Do not brush the face, chest or stomach. These are all sensitive areas of the body that could create pain or adverse reactions. Based on the theory of Sensory Integration, the DPPT uses a prescriptive method of providing stimulation to help the mind-brain-body self-organize. Patricia Wilbarger and her daughter Julia Wilbarger, MS, OTR offer workshops for professionals who wish to use these techniques in practice. Please note: training is absolutely necessary before attempting to use this technique in practice. Use requires a trained therapist otherwise harmful or ineffective influences may be the result. The technique is called “brushing” only because of the tool that is used, but it’s not with your typical hairbrush. What Is a Sensory Brush?

What Are the Benefits of Sensory Brushing? 

Wilbarger, P. (1984, September). Planning an adequate sensory diet-application of sensory processing theory during the first year of life. Zero to Three, 7-12. There are several situations that may be a predictor of using a sensory brush in occupational therapy as a tool to support sensory needs.