What intervention method should an occupational therapist use next for children overresponsive to touch who responded well to a previous activity?

Focusing on the needs of children who are overresponsive to touch, the appropriate intervention method is to roll the large ball with increased pressure across their bodies. This approach provides proprioceptive input, which can help the children gradually adapt to the sensation of pressure on their skin. By using a ball that can deliver this pressure in a controlled manner, therapists can create a sensory experience that encourages the children to become more comfortable with tactile sensations.

This method not only helps to enhance body awareness but also offers a gentle challenge to their sensory processing system, thereby promoting overall sensory tolerance. Combining familiar movement with pressure input can help children develop their coping strategies for managing tactile sensitivities effectively, especially since they responded positively to a prior activity.

The other intervention choices, while potentially engaging or educational, do not directly address the tactile sensitivities in the same way. Introducing auditory cues may distract rather than focus on the touch aspect, exploring textured items could significantly overwhelm a child who is overresponsive, and competitive games may introduce stress or anxiety rather than providing a therapeutic sensory experience.