Batya Engel-Yeger1. 1. Occupational Therapy Department, Faculty of Social Welfare & Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa. batya@research.haifa.ac.il
Abstract
BACKGROUND: One determinant of participation is activity preferences, which may be influenced by sensory processing patterns. PURPOSE: To compare daily activity preferences of Israeli children who have typical versus atypical sensory processing patterns, according to age and gender. METHODS: Twenty-five children with atypical sensory processing patterns and 109 typical peers aged 6 - 10.75 years completed the Preference for Activities of Children (PAC) questionnaire. Sensory processing patterns were determined according to the Short Sensory Profile (SSP). RESULTS: Children with atypical sensory processing patterns showed greater preference for active physical activities. Lower energy level was correlated with greater preference for self-improvement activities. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Activity preferences may be affected by children's sensory processing patterns. These effects are minimal among children with atypical sensory processing but no other co-morbidities. Evaluating these effects may assist in establishing occupational therapy interventions, facilitate children's engagement in the intervention, and enhance their participation in daily living.
BACKGROUND: One determinant of participation is activity preferences, which may be influenced by sensory processing patterns. PURPOSE: To compare daily activity preferences of Israeli children who have typical versus atypical sensory processing patterns, according to age and gender. METHODS: Twenty-five children with atypical sensory processing patterns and 109 typical peers aged 6 - 10.75 years completed the Preference for Activities of Children (PAC) questionnaire. Sensory processing patterns were determined according to the Short Sensory Profile (SSP). RESULTS:Children with atypical sensory processing patterns showed greater preference for active physical activities. Lower energy level was correlated with greater preference for self-improvement activities. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Activity preferences may be affected by children's sensory processing patterns. These effects are minimal among children with atypical sensory processing but no other co-morbidities. Evaluating these effects may assist in establishing occupational therapy interventions, facilitate children's engagement in the intervention, and enhance their participation in daily living.