Sensory Screening Assessment
An initial exploration
A one-hour Sensory Screening Assessment provides an initial exploration of how a child or young person processes and responds to sensory information and whether sensory differences may be influencing their participation in everyday life.
This can be a helpful starting point for families or schools who have noticed possible sensory differences but are unsure whether a more comprehensive Occupational Therapy or Sensory Integration assessment is required.
The screening considers the child’s sensory experiences across everyday activities and environments, including how they respond to movement, touch, sound, visual information, body awareness and other sensory experiences. We also consider how sensory processing may be interacting with areas such as regulation, attention, self-care, play, learning and participation.
What does a Sensory Screening Assessment include?
Depending on the child’s needs, the screening may include:
- Parent/carer discussion and relevant background information
- Exploration of current sensory concerns and their impact on everyday life
- A pre-consultation questionnaire, where appropriate
- Consideration of the child’s regulation and participation during the session
- Identification of sensory patterns that may warrant further exploration
- Practical sensory and environmental recommendations
- Guidance regarding appropriate next steps
What will I receive?
Following the screening, you will receive a short-written summary outlining the main findings, identified areas of need and practical recommendations.
Recommendations may include strategies that can be introduced at home or within education, environmental adaptations, advice for parents or school, or a recommendation for a more comprehensive Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration or EASI assessment where further investigation is indicated.
Is a Sensory Screening Assessment the same as a full assessment?
No. A sensory screening provides an initial overview rather than the depth of assessment provided through a comprehensive Occupational Therapy or Sensory Integration assessment.
It can help us identify whether sensory processing differences may be contributing to the difficulties being experienced and determine whether further specialist assessment would be beneficial.
A screening assessment would not usually be appropriate where a detailed assessment and formal recommendations are required for purposes such as an EHCP Needs Assessment, SEND Tribunal or complex intervention planning. In these circumstances, we would recommend discussing the appropriate comprehensive assessment with one of our Occupational Therapists.