Sensory integration therapy for children with neurodevelopmental disorders in Japan: An evaluation using the Pediatric Volitional Questionnaire and the Assessment of Communication and Interaction Skills

The effectiveness of sensory integration (SI) therapy in clinical practice has been poorly investigated. This study aimed to explore whether qualitative changes before and after SI therapy can be objectively captured using the Pediatric Volitional Questionnaire (PVQ) and the Assessment of Communication and Interaction Skills (ACIS), which are based on the Model of Human Occupation. This prospective interventional study included children (4–6 years old) diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders and receiving SI therapy for the first time. The children were individually provided with SI therapy by certified therapists once a week, every 2 weeks, or once a month; the intervention period was either 3 or 6 months. The primary outcome was the PVQ and ACIS scores based on video segments. Scoring was conducted by at least three occupational therapists trained in SI therapy and in PVQ and ACIS assessment. Among the 19 participants (18 boys, one girl), percentage-converted PVQ scores significantly increased post-SI therapy (Z = 2.11, p = .035, r = .48), particularly among children with low pre-intervention PVQ scores (Z = 2.55, p = .011, r = .85). Likewise, the percentage-converted ACIS scores significantly increased post-SI therapy [t(18)=−2.57, p = .019, Cohen’s d = 0.59)]. We provide evidence that SI therapy may improve volition and communication/interaction skills in pediatric patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.