A Buffet of Sensory Interventions - by Susan L Culp (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This book offers a smorgasbord of sensory-based interventions for use by educators, occupational therapists and parents. This practical and well-researched tool is unique by focusing on middle and high school students, whose sensory needs are often overlooked. In suggesting interventions for this age group, the author emphasizes the importance of fostering independence, self-advocacy and self-regulation as a way to for teens with autism spectrum disorders to take ownership of their sensory needs as they transition into adulthood. Using simple terminology and lots of illustrations, the book also explains sensory integration basics, describes the sensory systems and their dysfunction and helps develop daily educational interventions through assessment of sensory needs. Parents and educational team members working with teens with autism spectrum disorders will benefit from adding this resource to their library.

Review Quotes

"Finally sensory-based interventions targeted to middle and high school students with autism! This 'buffet' of interventions is unique to teen development as it seeks a collaborative dialogue among providers, including assessment as well as input from the teen. It is sensitive to issues teens face daily in their school and social environments while dealing with sensory issues that can interfere with completing school-related tasks. It seeks to facilitate the teen with regard to recognizing his/her own sensory needs, becoming a self-advocate for modifications to the environment, and ultimately being able to self-regulate independently. In so doing it will maximize students' learning abilities." --Susan R. Collins, MS

"Removes much of the mystery surrounding sensory issues in middle and high school students. This well-organized, easy-to-read book can be used by parents, school professionals, and other therapists who work with middle and high school students with sensory needs. Ms. Culp presents a wealth of sensory-based intervention strategies and offers ways in which to organize them throughout the day so as to most effectively assist students. I am excited to have a new resource to use in the classrooms in which I consult and in my office with the children and adolescents with whom I work. This is a must-read for anyone trying to help students survive the sensory challenges encountered in middle school and high school." --Lauren H. Kerstein, LCSW

"This book promotes understanding and delivers solutions to address the sensory piece of the puzzle for many students. The word 'buffet' reflects abundant possibilities for teens, parents, administrators, teachers, therapists, and other health professionals. Susan has masterfully compiled helpful examples of everyday challenges; visuals portraying the sensory systems; proactive strategies to keep students self-regulated; and self-advocacy programs to assist teens in standing up for themselves." --Diana A. Henry, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Henry OT Services, Inc.

About the Author

Susan L. Culp, MS, OTR/L is an occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics with over 14 years of experience in both school-based and home health settings. She has a B.S. in education from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, as well as a B.S. in occupational therapy and an M.S. in special education (autism spectrum disorders) from the University of Kansas. In the school-based setting, Susan works with children of all capabilities and ages from preschool to 21 years old. She is especially interested in helping children with diagnoses of sensory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and developmental delays reach their full potential.