Sensory integration

The use of Mirrors, Total Acceptance and Positive Interaction in Reflective Play Therapy especially when combined with Reiki energy provides an opportunity for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders to become aware of and learn to interact with the world around them.

The low arousal play environment encourages eye contact, facilitates speech & language and enhances social development.

This is an intensive and very personal process that will encourage and empower each child to reach their full potential.

Many autistic children seek out deep pressure stimulation which can be extremely calming and will reduce arousal in the nervous system Pressure applied simultaneously to either side of the body decreases metabolic and pulse rate, whilst spinning and swinging stimulates the vestibular system, helping the brain to organise and process sensory input.

Children love our string swing Swurl which offers both the deep pressure squeeze that they crave whilst simultaneously swinging and spinning. Regular use of this equipment reduces hyperactivity whilst the vigorous aerobic exercise of the trampoline helps to reduce maladaptive and stereotypical behaviour.

In many children with Asd the cerebellum and amygdala (emotion centre) of the brain are underdeveloped, the programme of play activities at Gateways is designed to stimulate and re pattern these areas bringing them back into balance.

We incorporate many different modalities into our reflective play therapy providing something for each of the senses and by allowing each child to choose the activities for themselves we empower them to intuitively design their own programme of self healing.

For children with challenging behaviour, anxiety or anger problems we will work with you to design a range of Fun but therapeutic activities that will promote emotional healing & increase self esteem.

Many of the activities for this group are designed to work alongside the Social, emotional Aspects of Learning curriculum being used in many local schools whilst others are more child led and allow for individual styles of learning and creativity.

We will endeavour to work with other professionals involved with your child and provide ongoing family support if required.