Positive behavioral effect of sensory integration intervention in young children with autism spectrum disorder

Background: Sensory integration occupational therapy (SI-OT) might be useful for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in younger age, according to Pusponegoro. Previous studies were still limited, especially in younger age. This study evaluated the effect of SI-OT in improving positive behaviors of ASD children aged 2–5 years. Methods: Non-randomized controlled trial of SI-OT evaluation, assessed with Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale-II. Results: A total of 72 subjects were studied. Following SI-OT, communication skills (expressive, receptive), socialization (coping skills), and daily living skills (personal, community) were improved significantly. Conclusions: SI-OT with Ayres theory in 60 min, twice a week for 12 weeks improved positive behaviors. Impact: To address the effectivity of sensory integration occupational therapy (SI-OT) in improving positive behaviors of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) children aged 2–5 years.The first study to evaluate evidence of SI-OT in ASD younger than 3 years.Non-randomized controlled trial of SI-OT evaluation of ASD in younger children aged 2–5 years with Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale-II.SI-OT of Ayres theory in 60 min, twice a week for 12 weeks improves communication domain (expressive, receptive, written) aged 2–4 years, and socialization domain (interpersonal relationship, play, and leisure time) aged 2 years of ASD children.