by
Nancy Kashman and Janet Mora Reviewed By Maureen
Bennie
Nancy Kashman, occupational therapist, and Janet
Mora, speech-language pathologist, have joined
forces to create a team approach in tackling the
difficulties of sensory integration. Their book
focuses on sensory difficulties that manifest
themselves in the processing of sensory information
and behavior. Each chapter teams an OT approach
with a visual strategy approach provided by the
SLP. Every chapter has examples highlighted in
italicized writing to draw attention to successful
strategies used with children.
There are a few "points at a glance"
which provide easy to read information in bullets
on pages 45, 49, and 52. There is a good chart,
Environmental Effects on Level of Arousal, on
page 65 that lists what stimuli is arousing or
calming. Chapter 7, Intervention, outlines all
its strategies in the east to follow bullet format.
The book has 10 chapters and appendices A through
I. I thought the ideas for use of videos for assessment
and intervention in Chapter 9 was beneficial.
Chapter 10 highlights three case studies for a
team approach in sensory integration but I would
like to see more examples sited. The appendices
provide practical information such as guidelines
for assessing an environment, how to make stuffed
pants, how to make stuffed sweatshirts, and how
to construct a weighted vest. These items are
quite expensive because they are special order
so guidelines for making your own will save you
money. I love what items to put in an oral box
in Appendix F and the general communication tips
listed in the bullet format in Appendix H.
The assessments, resources and recommended readings
located at the back of the book are thorough.
There are illustrations throughout the book to
support a strategy or point such as what sitting
in the "W" position looks like (pg.
76). Any suggested intervention is supported by
a list of recommendations or guidelines for implementation.
I found this book to be a great practical guide
written in an easy to understand and easy to follow
format. It could be used successfully by professionals,
teachers, and parents who are coordinating their
own therapy/intervention team.
This resource book can be ordered on-line for
$39.95 at Exceptional Resources (www.exceptionalresources.com)
or by calling 1-877-482-1555.
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