The effects of occupational therapy with sensory integration emphasis on preschool-age children with autism

Objective. Using single-subject research design, the effects of an occupati onal therapy intervention emphasizing sensory integration with five prescho ol children with autism were examined. Method. In the AB design, nonengagement, mastery play and interaction were measured using videotape clips of each child's free play in the preschool. Following a 3-week baseline, an occupational therapist provided one-on-one sessions and consultation to teachers for 10 weeks. Results, When baseline and intervention phases were compared four children demonstrated decreased frequency of nonengaged behavior and three demonstra ted increased frequency of mastery (goal-directed) play. Improvements in fr equency of interaction were minimal Conclusion. The results support descriptions in the literature regarding th e behavioral changes that children with autism can make when participating in intervention using a sensory integration approach.