Sensory Assessments

Occupational therapists conduct sensory assessments to gather information about the child'd sensory systems and the behaviors of the student when reacting with his environment. These assessments are also used to collect information from the individuals that know the student such as their parents/caregivers and teachers. This information provides valuable input for OT to consider when preparing IEP, recommending adaptations/accommodations, and planning sessions.

This list is by no means exclusive of common assessments that evaluate sensory systems in the schools.

Sensory Processing Measure (SPM)

Type: Paper & pencil, Norm-referenced questionnaires
Key Areas Assessed: Sensory processing, praxis, social participation
Age Range: Pre-school version (2-5 years), school-age version (5-12 years)
- SPM also has a manual for infants/toddlers, adolescents, and adults
Description: Assessment that examines sensory integration and processing in different environments (home, school, school environments (e.g., recess, cafeteria).
- Includes forms for Parent/caregiver and teacher
Latest Edition: 2nd ed.

Sensory Profile

Type: Paper and pencil, Criterion-referenced questionnaires
Key Areas Assessed: Sensory processing
Age Range: 0-15 years old
Description: A standardized tools to evaluate client's sensory processing patterns at home, school, and community-based activities.
- Infant, toddler, child, short, school companion forms
Latest Edition: 2nd ed.