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Sensory Seekers and Sensory Avoiders

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Every child experiences the world through their senses—but for some, the need for sensory input is far greater. These children, often called Sensory Seekers, crave movement, touch, sound, and other sensations to feel regulated and focused. Supporting them with targeted sensory activities can help them stay calm, engaged, and ready to learn. At Belief Shaping Therapies, Dubai, we understand the unique needs of sensory seekers. Our team of experts uses a holistic, child-centered approach to provide Occupational therapy in Dubai that blends in-centre expertise with at-home strategies. This blog will explore effective sensory activities you can try today—whether at home or as part of your child’s therapy plan. What Is a Sensory Seeker? A Sensory seeker is a child who actively looks for intense sensory experiences—spinning, crashing, touching everything, making loud sounds, or chewing on objects. While these behaviours are their way of self-regulating, without guidance, they can become overwhelming or disruptive. That’s where Sensory integration therapy in Dubai comes in—helping children channel their sensory needs safely and meaningfully. Engaging the Visual Sense: A World of Exploration Children who are visually sensory-seeking often crave bright colors, patterns, movement, and visual complexity. Providing engaging visual input helps them improve attention, organization, and tracking skills. Here are stimulating visual activities tailored for these needs: Visual Activities for Sensory Seekers: ●     “I Spy” and seek-and-find games – boost visual scanning and attention ●     Kaleidoscopes, cellophane, magnifying glasses, binoculars – engage visual curiosity ●     Sorting by color and size – supports categorization and organization ●     Pinwheels, spinning tops, fidget spinners – provide constant visual motion ●     Puzzles, mazes, dot-to-dots – encourage visual tracking and problem-solving ●     Colorful crafts like coloring and beading – foster creativity and coordination ●     Visual schedules and routines – aid in comprehension and planning ●     Brightly colored clothing or toys – attract visual focus ●     Mirror play – helps with self-awareness and expression   These activities help children gain better visual discrimination, improve concentration, and offer a fun, structured outlet for their sensory needs. Tuning into Sound: Auditory Adventures for Seekers Auditory seekers may be constantly humming, making loud sounds, or drawn to music and rhythmic noise. These kids find comfort and stimulation in sound-based experiences. Auditory Activities for Sensory Seekers: These experiences support auditory processing, language development, and emotional connection through sound. The Joy of Touch: Tactile Exploration for Sensory Learners Tactile seekers love to touch everything—textures, temperatures, or objects with an interesting feel. They may dig in dirt, rub fabrics, or enjoy messy play. Tactile Activities for Sensory Seekers: ●     Sensory bins with kinetic sand, rice, or beans – encourage exploration ●     Messy play like finger painting or play dough – fosters creativity ●     Gardening – introduces varied natural textures ●     Baking and cooking – allows squishing, kneading, and mixing ●     Tactile books – engage through textures ●     Baths with sponges, loofahs, or textured toys – turn hygiene into sensory fun ●     Seats with varied fabrics – offer passive tactile input These activities boost texture recognition, fine motor development, and tactile tolerance. Exploring Smell and Taste: Olfactory and Gustatory Adventures Some children seek out strong smells or intense flavors—they may sniff food, lick objects, or chew frequently. Olfactory and Gustatory Activities: ●     Scented play dough – combines touch and smell ●     Scratch and sniff stickers or scented markers – fun for identification ●     “Guess the smell” games – enhance olfactory discrimination ●     Blindfolded taste tests – boost oral sensory curiosity ●     Chewelry (chewable jewelry) – provides safe oral input ●     Sucking on ice, crunchy snacks, or chewy items – offers proprioceptive oral input These promote sensory discrimination, oral-motor awareness, and safe exploration. The Thrill of Movement: Vestibular and Proprioceptive Input Movements seekers often spin, crash, jump, or hang upside-down. They need input that helps them understand their body in space and feel regulated. Movement and Deep Pressure Activities: ●     Playground play – swinging, sliding, seesaws, merry-go-rounds ●     Bouncing on an exercise ball – energizes and focuses ●     Cartwheels, somersaults, and roughhousing – develop balance ●     Riding a bike or scooter – offers rhythmic movement ●     Trampoline jumping – releases energy and improves coordination ●     Obstacle courses – combine jumping, crawling, and climbing ●     Crashing into cushions or rolling in blankets – offers calming deep pressure ●     Pillow humping games and bear hugs – promote bonding and proprioceptive input ●     Yoga poses and animal walks – build strength and body awareness ●     “Heavy work” like carrying groceries or pushing laundry baskets – helps with grounding These activities enhance balance, body control, calming, and spatial awareness. Finding Inner Awareness: Interoceptive Exploration Interoceptive seekers are often drawn to activities that help them connect with internal body sensations, such as breathing or muscle movement. Activities for Interoceptive Input: ●     Breathing exercises using visuals like bubbles or pinwheels – build calm ●     Progressive muscle relaxation – teaches tension release and awareness These foster self-regulation, body awareness, and emotional control. Our Role at Belief Shaping Therapies, Dubai At Belief Shaping Therapies, we design individualized therapy plans that incorporate: Let’s Shape Sensory Success, Together Sensory seekers aren’t “too much”—they simply experience the world more intensely. With the right support and strategies, their unique energy can become strength. If you’re looking for Occupational therapy in Dubai for Sensory seekers, or searching for a Sensory therapy Centre near you, our team at Belief Shaping Therapies, Dubai is here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our customized sensory support plans. Your child’s sensory world is full of potential—let’s shape it with purpose.

Difference between Autism and ADHD

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are two distinct neurodevelopmental conditions that affect behavior, communication, and attention. While they share some overlapping symptoms, understanding the differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. This blog outlines the key differences, similarities, diagnosis methods, and treatments for both conditions. What Is Autism? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects a person’s ability to communicate, socialize, and engage in repetitive behaviours. It often appears in early childhood and varies in severity. Key Characteristics of Autism: ●   Difficulty understanding and engaging in social interactions. ●   Repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. ●   Preference for routine and consistency. ●   Challenges with emotional expression and sensory sensitivities. What Is ADHD? Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptoms usually begin in childhood and can persist into adulthood. Key Characteristics of ADHD: ●   Trouble maintaining focus and being easily distracted. ●   Excessive movement or restlessness (hyperactivity). ●   Acting without thinking (impulsivity). ●   Difficulty following instructions or completing tasks.     Key Differences between Autism and ADHD Feature Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Primary Focus Social communication and repetitive behaviors Attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity Social Skills Difficulty with social understanding and cues Impulsive in social situations, may interrupt conversations Repetitive Behaviors Common, often intense and specific Less common, may fidget or display restless behavior Attention Focused on interests, struggles to shift focus Short attention span, easily distracted Hyperactivity Less common, may include repetitive movements Common, restlessness, and excessive physical activity Impulsivity Challenges understanding social norms May interrupt others and act without thinking Onset of Symptoms Appears within the first 2 years of life Must appear before the age of 12 Emotional Expression Struggles to articulate feelings May have trouble regulating emotions due to hyperactivity Routine and Structure Prefers routine and resists change Easily bored with repetitive activities How to Identify Autism vs. ADHD in Children Observing your child’s behaviour closely can help distinguish between Autism and ADHD. Here are some critical differences to watch for: ○ Children with Autism may focus intensely on a favorite subject but struggle to shift attention to new tasks. ○ Children with ADHD have a short attention span and find it challenging to maintain focus on any activity. ○ Autism: Struggles with eye contact, may not use gestures, and often has difficulty expressing feelings. ○ ADHD: Talks continuously, interrupts others, and may not recognize how their words impact others. ○ Autism: Prefers routines and may get upset by changes. ○ ADHD: Easily bored by repetitive tasks and prefers variety. How Are Autism and ADHD Diagnosed? ○   Parent questionnaires about early behaviours. ○   Observational assessments by specialists. ○   Developmental screenings and comprehensive evaluations. ○   Behavioural checklists from parents and teachers. ○   Observations of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ○   Rule out other conditions through comprehensive assessments. Treatment Approaches for Autism and ADHD Treatment Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Behavioral Therapy Helps improve social skills and reduce repetitive behaviors. Teaches coping strategies for managing attention and impulses. Medication May be used for related issues like anxiety. Often used to manage inattention and hyperactivity. Speech Therapy Supports communication and language development. Not typically required unless there are specific challenges. Occupational Therapy Assists with sensory integration and motor skills. Helps with focus, organization, and fine motor tasks. Routine Management Consistency is crucial for reducing anxiety. Variety and active breaks help manage hyperactivity. Can a Child Have Both Autism and ADHD? Yes, it is possible for a child to have both Autism and ADHD. In fact, research suggests that children with autism are more likely to exhibit ADHD symptoms than the other way around. Overlapping Symptoms: ●   Difficulty with emotional regulation. ●   Challenges with social communication. ●   Restlessness and sensory sensitivities. Early diagnosis and intervention can help tailor personalized treatment plans to manage both conditions effectively. Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters An accurate diagnosis is essential for: ● Developing effective treatment plans to support the child’s unique needs. ● Accessing appropriate therapies such as behavioral, speech, and occupational therapies. ● Providing family support and educational resources. How Belief Shaping Therapy Centre Supports Individuals with Autism and ADHD At the Belief Shaping Therapy Centre, we understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Our team of the Best therapists in Dubai provides personalized care to address the specific needs of each individual. We offer a comprehensive range of therapies, including ABA therapy, Speech therapy, sensory integration, and Occupational therapy, to help clients improve social skills, communication, and focus. As the Best therapy Centre in Dubai, our goal is to provide a supportive environment where individuals with ADHD and Autism can thrive. Our expert therapists work closely with families to create tailored intervention plans, ensuring consistent progress and better quality of life. Whether you’re in Dubai or other locations around Dubai, our specialized programs are designed to empower individuals and help them lead fulfilling lives. Conclusion While Autism and ADHD share some behavioural similarities, they are fundamentally different conditions. Understanding these differences helps in early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, ensuring children receive the support they need to thrive. If you are concerned about your child’s development, seek professional evaluation and guidance from a qualified therapist or specialist.

Importance of Brain Gym

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Brain Gym is a set of simple physical exercises that help improve brain function. The Brain Gym program is a holistic system based on the principles of Kinesiology and learning theory. It’s based on the idea that moving your body in certain ways can make your brain work better. These exercises can help you focus, remember things, learn more easily, and feel less stressed. It’s like a workout for your brain and body to work better together! Since Autism often involves challenges with communication, sensory processing, focus, and coordination, Brain Gym exercises may help improve these areas. Brain Gym exercises often focus on improving the following: In short, Brain Gym can help kids with autism by improving their focus, coordination, communication, emotional regulation, and overall cognitive abilities. It can provide a fun, non-threatening way to develop important skills while supporting their overall well-being The exercises are typically simple and can be done in a playful, fun way, which makes them accessible for children, including those with special needs Benefits of Brain Gym Brain Gym exercises can help support academic skills; improve eye control & hand-eye coordination; balance & coordination; memory, concentration & focus; aid comprehension, communication & organisational skills; release stress & restore vitality & flexibility; create positivity, high self-esteem & confidence; increase energy levels; better self-awareness & self-directed choice making Popular Brain Gym Exercises for Special Kids: Here are a few exercises often used in Brain Gym therapy that can benefit special children: In addition to calming the child, regular brain gym exercises can enhance neural connections, laying a foundation for cognitive growth. In addition to these brain gym activities, engaging children in tasks that challenge their thinking, problem-solving, and memory skills is also a good idea. The Role of Belief Shaping Therapies in the Importance of Brain Gym At Belief Shaping Therapies, we recognize the powerful impact that Brain Gym exercises can have on children, especially those on the autism spectrum. Our professional therapists in Bur Dubai and BurJuman tailor Brain Gym programs to each child’s unique needs. By incorporating Brain Gym into therapy, we help children develop the cognitive and physical skills they need for everyday challenges, while making the process enjoyable and accessible. These exercises are designed not only to boost coordination but also to enhance learning abilities, helping children manage sensory processing issues We at Belief Shaping Therapies Dubai, tailor Brain Gym exercises as per the child’s specific needs and abilities. The sessions are conducted by Brain gym Certified Therapist. At Belief Shaping Therapies, our professional therapists combine Brain Gym with other therapeutic techniques to create a holistic approach that addresses both the body and mind. Through these fun and engaging activities, we are committed to enhancing children’s abilities, improving their quality of life, and supporting their development.