Excellent approach

by Teri
(London, Kentucky)

My son, who will soon be 4 years old, has been sensory defensive and it has been mistaken for ADHD. I am an Occupational Therapist since 1997 and knew my son did not have ADHD, but that it was sensory defensive behavior.




I have recently been trained in the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol. I have initiated this therapy with my son over the past week and 1/2. After the very first treatment, his bath went smoother than it has since he was born. Bathing has been a serious issue and complicated event since he was born from the first bath to the most recent last, prior to this protocol.

Initially, I thought it was just a coincidence that the first good bathing experience in his life coincided with the first time he received this technique. But, now, I can say 10 days and 10 baths later, it must not be a coincidence. We have been struggle free for bath time since I started the protocol.

Whereas previously he did not tolerate being washed with a washcloth, it no longer bothers him. He previously could not stand for water to be poured on him, and now, it is no longer a problem. He used to scream and cry during his bath, now, it is laughter and playing with bath toys during bathtime that we hear.

Not only has this transpired, but other not so bothersome or obvious things have resolved. For instance, he was previously very particular about clothing, but today, he tolerated dressing without putting up a fuss or requesting "softer" clothes. He sits in a chair at the table with the rest of the family now when eating meals, and he sits down in public places.

For example, he had a doctor's appointment today. He sat patiently in the waiting area for 15 minutes and then in the doctor's office for another 30 minutes without difficulty. His school has also noticed changes, and have reported that he now sits with the rest of the class during circle time.

The training was thorough, and the Wilbarger's are excellent teachers. This is an excellent technique to consider if you or someone you love is struggling with sensory defensiveness. It has been a huge blessing to us and our son. I can't thank the Wilbarger's enough for helping release my son from his prison, and I thank God that He made the opportunity to attend this workshop available to me.



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Feb 18, 2009
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Excellent Approach
by: Anonymous

Thank you for that information. I must find out more from my daughter's OT this Friday.

Feb 17, 2009
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Answers to questions
by: Teri

The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol, Deep Pressure Proprioceptive Technique (or Therapressure) is a technique using a specific type of brush for deep pressure applied very specifically as prescribed, followed by joint compressions. It must be administered by a trained professional such as an Occupational Therapist who has received training that is up to date. There are precautions.

Parents and Therapists can contact "AVANTI" online for training or google Wilbarger Brushing Protocol for available trainings. I knew my son needed it because he was sensory defensive in more than one area of sensation. It takes a specially trained Therapist to identify if your child would benefit from this approach and the technique is applied very specifically.

Feb 17, 2009
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Excellent Approach
by: Anonymous

Hello,

I have a daughter who suffers from dyspraxia for 3 years and only been diagnose for dyspraxia. What is Wilbarger Protocol?

Kind Regards
Deirdre Hamilton

Feb 16, 2009
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Brushing
by: Anonymous

I haven't been to any special Wilbarger training, but the early childhood teacher and the OT at my school showed me how to do it on my little student w/ autism......and it DOES help for my classroom too...plus, w/ this student, it helps he and I have a little 'bonding' time w/ giggles and eye contact w/ some good non-verbal and sometimes echoing communication between teacher and child.....I highly recommend it too!
Sue (IL)

Feb 16, 2009
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how to know if it is the right therapy
by: Anonymous

Hi,

My son's OT has recommended the Wilbarger protocol for him. My son is dx both ADHD and SPD. We are pursuing an autism evaluation as well. My son is a sensory seeker but he does have some tactile defensiveness. He does not like to be touched by people outside his family. In fact, he told his OT recently, "Don't touch my mommy!" So I guess he doesn't even want other people touching me. He is extremely picky about clothing and textures of things.

So my question for you is, how did you decide the Wilbarger protocol was a good fit for your child? And did you have to travel far to get the training? I am in rural VA, about 1 and a half hours from DC. Did your child accept the protocol at first, or did he resist it? Thanks, Ericka

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