Understanding Our Auditory System and Therapeutic Listening

The Role of Our Auditory System

Our auditory system is one of eight sensory systems that help us interpret the world around us. It plays a key role in processing sounds and has deep connections to the brain and nervous system. For individuals with sensory processing challenges, the auditory system may be either hypersensitive (overly responsive to sounds) or hyposensitive (under-responsive to sounds).

How Occupational Therapy Helps

Occupational therapy addresses these sensory challenges by helping individuals better process and respond to sound. Through therapeutic techniques, therapists can:

• Improve focus on relevant sounds in the environment
• Reduce sensitivity to noise
• Enhance overall participation in daily activities

What Is Therapeutic Listening?

Therapeutic Listening is a sound-based intervention that supports occupational therapy. Modulated music with specific frequencies and beats helps reorganize the nervous system. This approach addresses issues like sensory processing difficulties, attention, and communication.

A trained occupational therapist creates a personalized Therapeutic Listening plan. The program typically involves listening to specific music tracks for 30 minutes, 1-2 times a day. These tracks are adjusted regularly based on the individual's progress.

Benefits of Therapeutic Listening

Therapeutic Listening can help with:

• Sensory processing and attention difficulties
• Communication challenges
• Trouble adapting to routine changes
• Sleep problems and arousal regulation
• Motor planning and sequencing tasks
• Feeding difficulties
• Recovery from frequent ear infections
• And much more!

Auditory Products to Support Development

In addition to Therapeutic Listening, other auditory tools can help improve sound processing. Here are some great options that we carry here at TFH Canada:

• Echo Ball: Engages auditory skills through sound-sensitive play.
• Recordable Answer Buzzers: Useful for communication and auditory recognition.
• Toobaloo: Helps isolate sounds for clearer reading and auditory focus.
• Melodee Balls: Encourages sound recognition, attention, and motor planning.

Our auditory system plays a crucial role in how we navigate the world. For those with sensory processing challenges, Therapeutic Listening and other auditory tools can make a significant difference in improving focus, communication, and overall well-being. If you think Therapeutic Listening might benefit your child, reach out to your OT team today!