In recent years, the prevalence of sensory integration disorders (SID) in children has increased, especially in urban areas. Traditionally, sensory integration therapy is conducted in hospital-based settings, but limited medical resources make it difficult for many children to receive the necessary treatment. The study titled "Application of Hybrid Multiple Attribute Decision-Making Model to Explore the Design Strategies of Children's Facilities in Neighborhood Open Spaces Based on Sensory Integration Theory" offers a promising solution by incorporating sensory integration therapy into neighborhood open spaces.
Key Findings from the Study
The research identifies effective facility factors from occupational therapy (OT) rooms and translates them into design features for children's facilities in neighborhood open spaces. The study categorizes these features into five dimensions:
- Mobile Experience Series: Includes facilities that enhance physical motor coordination, such as suspended discussions and narrow soft textures.
- Goal Guidance Series: Focuses on interactive games that guide children’s behavior and improve their auditory and visual integration.
- Protection Perception Series: Features include luminous game props and cushion facilities to ensure safety.
- Limb Coordination Series: Supports body coordination and balance training.
- Climbing Series: Encourages climbing activities to promote vestibular system training.
Implementation Strategies
To effectively incorporate sensory integration therapy into neighborhood spaces, consider the following strategies:
- Focus on Goal Guidance: Interactive games that provide auditory and visual stimuli can significantly improve children's sensory integration, especially in early language development.
- Enhance Mobile Experience: Design facilities that encourage sliding, climbing, and rotation to develop physical motor skills.
- Safety and Protection: Use soft materials and cushion facilities to ensure children’s safety during play.
- Leverage Virtual Reality: Integrate virtual reality technologies to create safe environments for role-playing and repetitive task learning.
Benefits for Practitioners
By adopting these design strategies, practitioners can create therapeutic environments in everyday spaces, making sensory integration therapy more accessible. This approach not only reduces the burden on medical staff but also helps children receive continuous sensory stimulation, improving their daily life skills.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Application of Hybrid Multiple Attribute Decision-Making Model to Explore the Design Strategies of Children's Facilities in Neighborhood Open Spaces Based on Sensory Integration Theory.
