Frequent questions
What is Sensory Processing Disorder? (SPD)
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) occurs when the central nervous system is unable to adequately interpret and organize the information captured by the five senses (touch, smell, taste, hearing, and vision). This disability affects, to a great extent, the integral functioning of people. Neuroscientist Anna Jean Ayres, a pioneer in the study of sensory integration, likened SPD to a"neurological gridlock" that prevents certain parts of the brain from receiving the information needed to interpret sensory information correctly. A person with SPD has difficulty processing and acting on information received through the senses, which creates challenges in performing myriad daily tasks such as sleeping, eating, or performing successfully at school or work. The ability to socialize or take proper care of oneself is also affected, generating behavior problems, anxiety, depression, isolation, school failure, among many other problems.
What are the warning signs of a child with SPD?
Being alert to possible signs of SPD in infants or young children is essential. An early diagnosis leads to early intervention and maximizes the chances of a better future. You can read all the red flags here:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IUdCtoONmDJ5IKU4ILNCksbT6po33jehif_nsJk8JVY/edit?usp=sharing
How can I get help from 5 Sentidos?
Our mission is to raise awareness through education to parents, teachers, doctors and the general population about Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). You can participate in our face-to-face Educational Workshops or access free Virtual Workshops (āWebinarsā). Visit the"Upcoming events"section or sign up for our"Newsletter"so that you are informed of new workshops and activities. We have a network of providers that provide us with better rates and preferential benefits for children and young people referred by 5 Sentidos. You can register at the following link:(Example) We provide assistance with additional therapies to those provided by the Department of Education and/or suggested by a certified Neurologist. To qualify, you must meet certain requirements. Request free of charge by accessing the following link:(Example)
Do these aids have any cost?
Participating is 100% free of cost. 98% of our annual budget comes from private collections, donations from corporations and individuals, foundations and social entities, state and federal funds. We have created a circle of donations that allows us to defray the cost of some additional therapies for the benefit of these children and young people with SPD status so that they can enjoy a better quality of life as they deserve. Help us transform lives by making your donation today by entering the following link www.enlace.com.
Does the child have to be registered with the Department of Education to receive these aids?
No. However, it is highly recommended. It is possible that a father or mother observes that their son or daughter does not develop according to their chronological age and that this causes them to fall behind in school. Minors suspected or known to have some special condition must be referred to the Special Education Program Registry. This will allow them to receive the benefits to which they are entitled at the Department of Education. For more information you can click here:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pJ1zCi9dTi7GBKeU5xIzQc18CiwD_GW7dyqUFDkdYPQ/edit?usp=sharing
What happens if the child has not been diagnosed with SPD by a Neurologist?
The first step is to go to a certified doctor (Pediatric Neurologist) where the child can receive a more complete evaluation to identify SPD. This involves standardized tests, detailed clinical observations, and parent and school reports. The evaluation process may also include physical exams, speech/language evaluation, hearing exam, psychological evaluation, and possibly other tests. A multidisciplinary evaluation is essential to rule out other related disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, anxiety disorder, etc. You can benefit from our list of providers since they provide us with better rates and preferential treatment for children and young people referred by 5 Sentidos. Contact us at 787-529-0562 for more details.