Pawprint

Within the therapeutic world, it isn't often that a treatment approach can be used across a wide range of diagnoses in both the pediatric and geriatric populations. However, developing and using a Multi-Sensory Environment (MSE) does just that. These are dedicated areas that are controlled to offer a variety of sensory inputs in order to promote relaxation, regulation and improve overall well-being. Meeting these needs allows for the expansion and improvement of an individual's learning and functional skills. These rooms are equipped with various sensory inputs to encourage individuals to learn through the senses. The space needs to be meaningful to the users, and with improved technology now available there more opportunities for individuals to interact with the equipment with increased independence.

Here at Southpaw we have come to realize the benefits of these spaces and are venturing into this arena with full force. We have been working hard to create many of our own products that we feel would enhance any MSE, as well as offering many products already available. We have already developed many of our own products, including, the Sensory Rover, the Southpaw Vibro Waterbed, Vibro-Acoustic Corner and the Vibro Rocker.

Our Sensory Rover, which was highlighted in the October 2009 Pawprint, is our take-along sensory room. It is equipped with a 4-foot bubble tube and fiber optic spray, mirrored panels for a light display, a built-in AM/FM Radio/CD Player with auxiliary input for an MP3 player, and an aroma fan. In addition, a Solar Projector comes complete with two image wheels and a rotator. We have recently improved this item by now making the bubble tube interactive so that your clients can control the color changes. This is made possible through Digital Sensory Technology (DST).

Our Sensory Rover, which was highlighted in the October 2009 Pawprint, is our take-along sensory room. Recent feedback from OT's in the field have led Southpaw to design the deluxe version which gives clients the opportunity to interact with the new Rover through the use of DST causes and effects. The client can control the colors on the Bubble Tube and Fiber Optics simultaneously or separately. The ping pong balls in the Bubble Tube improve visual tracking skills, while programs in the DST Mega Buttons help to improve the understanding of cause and effect, as well as color recognition and social interaction.

DST is a wireless switch system that enhances the use of not only our bubble tubes, but also the Magic Cube and Fiber Optic Sprays. It can be set up to control more than one item at a time. No longer are individuals tied down to one item or waiting for a reaction from a piece of equipment guided by the therapist. This technology allows clients who may have just sat in the space, now become part of the space, and we are integrating it into our products to enhance the functionality of them.

It actually may not be known exactly why, but vibratory input has been known to calm. As part of our goal to develop the best equipment to be added to any MSE, we have developed our Vibro-Acoustic Sensory Corner. This is a space developed for your over-stimulated, difficult to calm child. The vibration produced from the floor gives the child an overall calming sensation. It is a great place to perform tasks that require increased attention, as well as an ideal area for an individual to enjoy some down time with a favorite book or toy. This corner is a full body experience sure to provide an input that you cannot get in any other piece of equipment. We have also added the benefit of vibration to our newly designed Waterbed and Rocker.

We are trying to provide cutting edge equipment in this arena and will be highlighting some items at this year's 29th Annual AOTA Conference in Orlando, Florida... so please stop by and visit us at Booth #501.

For more information about Sens-Aura, Southpaw's new line of MSE products, go to www.sens-aura.com.