Problem Space and Considerations

Problem Space

Before we go further into the problem space, I would like to add a disclaimer. Designing spaces/kits around the needs of individuals with SPD can be challenging as it is a complex disorder with eight senses; the needs will vary significantly from person to person. This proposed research aims to improve the two senses: proprioception and vestibular sensory issues, by implementing sensory yoga as part of their daily routine. This research will be focusing on these two senses as they are the least researched of the senses.

Lack of research and promotion of Sensory Yoga for children with SPD

Research on the influence of Yoga for people with special needs and relevant to SPD difficulties exist. However, more research is needed, and SPD being the main focus of the study. Existing research focuses on the effect of yoga therapy on the symptoms of a sensory processing disorder in autistic individuals with SPD. Various yoga studies have shown promising improvement in autism spectrum disorder symptoms through improved sensory processing, overall motor skills, balance and coordination, cognition, imitation skills, and ability to communicate in relationships (Kankan Gulati, Praerna Hemant Bhargav, Abraham, & Hemant Bhargav, 2020). However, many existing research types about these aids are directed at parents or yoga instructors with hardly any SPD awareness. Little research has been conducted to create a sensory play kit that promotes sensory Yoga and accommodates SPD issues that encourage children with SPD to participate in fitness routines while having fun.

There is a gap in designing a sensory yoga kit that enables sensory Yoga as part of SPD therapy for children with SPD. Further research directed by children with SPD for SPD children accommodates Yoga as a therapeutic tool, which is a fun and enjoyable experience while beneficial to them is needed.

Codesign and Prototype Plan

For my co-design sessions, I will be working closely with the leading participants, the hypersensitive children with SPD, ages 5-8 in elementary school attending elementary school. It is quite common for children with SPD not to be diagnosed until they are well into elementary school. I will also be working with the secondary participants and key stakeholders, parents/caretakers and occupational therapists. It is crucial to focus on these occupational therapists to see if the yoga play kit could also be transferrable to the OT setting so that professionals can use it as part of their occupational therapy for SPD children. Due to the SPD’s sensitive nature and lack of experience working with children with SPD, occupational therapists are considered part of the participants. These participants will be involved in iterative co-design activities to address user needs better and be carried out separately in smaller working groups.

With the insights of the co-design session, a prototype will be developed. There will be two prototype iterations, and both times will be tested with children. In this way of including the users in the iterative process at every step, the research end goal to design a sensory yoga play kit designed for hypersensitive SPD children approved and tested by hypersensitive SPD children will be achievable.