09/13/2023
This is one of the many benefits of equine therapy! Riding a horse is an amazing rhythmic activity.
Somatic sensory regulation refers to the process of regulating our body's sensory experiences in order to maintain a state of balance and well-being. This process is essential for optimal functioning, as it helps us to adapt to our environment and respond appropriately to stimuli.
According to Dr. Bruce Perry, a leading expert in the field of child development, somatic sensory regulation is particularly important for children, as it plays a crucial role in their development and learning. When children are able to regulate their sensory experiences, they are better able to attend to and learn from their environment.
However, children who have difficulty with somatic sensory regulation may experience challenges in their development and learning. They may have difficulty with self-regulation, social interaction, and emotional control. They may also have difficulty with cognitive tasks such as problem-solving and decision-making.
There are several factors that can impact a child's ability to regulate their somatic sensory experiences. These include genetics, early life experiences, and their environment. For example, children who have a family history of sensory processing difficulties or who have experienced trauma or stress in early life may be more likely to have difficulty with somatic sensory regulation. The environment can also play a role, as children who are exposed to excessive stimuli or who do not have adequate opportunities for sensory exploration, may have difficulty regulating their sensory experiences.
There are several ways that parents and caregivers can support a child's somatic sensory regulation:
💞providing a predictable and structured environment
💞offer a sensory-rich experience
💞model self-regulation strategies
It is also important for parents and caregivers to be attuned to a child's sensory needs and to respond appropriately. For example, if a child is overstimulated, they may need a quiet, calm space to relax and regroup. On the other hand, if a child is under stimulated, they may benefit from more active, engaging experiences.
When we can meet a child’s sensory needs appropriately, we help aid in their development and learning.
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[ID: a close-up of many hands resting on the edge of a round drum are seen together. The words “Somatic sensory regulation such as rhythmic activity actually opens up the cortex and makes the reasoning parts of the brain more accessible for learning…Patterned, repetitive, rhythmic activity makes the overactive and overly reactive co-regulatory networks get back into balance.” –Dr. Bruce Perry is written on top of the image.]