sensory diet
A planned and scheduled activity program designed to meet a person's specific sensory needs throughout the day.
Full Definition
A sensory diet is an individualized activity plan that provides the sensory input a person's nervous system needs to stay focused and organized throughout the day. Originally developed by occupational therapist Patricia Wilbarger, sensory diets are commonly used with individuals who have sensory processing difficulties. The 'diet' includes a combination of alerting, organizing, and calming activities that are scheduled throughout the person's day, much like a food diet provides necessary nutrition at regular intervals. These activities are designed to help the nervous system achieve and maintain an optimal level of arousal for daily functioning.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase unless beginning a sentence. Not to be confused with dietary interventions.
In Context
- "The occupational therapist developed a sensory diet including deep pressure activities before homework time." — Pediatric treatment plan
- "Implementation of the sensory diet requires collaboration between school staff and parents." — Educational intervention report