Sensory Kids

Sensory Kids, paediatric occupational therapy in Dublin

Sensory Kids is a paediatric therapy clinic based in Dublin that works with children with sensory, learning and behavioural challenges. Its work focuses on the assessment and treatment of sensory processing and developmental issues using advanced sensory integration techniques, complemented by vestibular, proprioceptive and tactile input. Its stated goal is to help the nervous system process and respond to sensory information in a balanced and organised way, so that each child can engage with their environment with greater confidence and independence.

History and background

The clinic was founded in 2012 by Aneta Schwieterman, with the aim of making sensory integration therapy accessible to families in Ireland, at a time when few centres offered dedicated services for children with sensory processing difficulties. Since then it has grown from a small practice into, according to its own presentation, a leading clinic in the Dublin area, and describes itself as one of the first paediatric therapy clinics in the city. The company states that its team has CORU-registered expertise, more than 14 years of experience in paediatric therapy and has supported over 4,000 children since 2012. It currently works with children, adolescents and adults.

Services: assessment and treatment

The clinic structures its offering into four areas: an initial meeting, assessments, treatments and support with completing forms and reports. The initial meeting is presented as a relaxed first step in which the child is met and the family is guided on next steps. Assessments are comprehensive evaluations that identify the child's needs and form the basis for designing a personalised plan. Treatments consist of individualised therapy sessions aimed at helping the child progress through sensory techniques. The fourth area offers help with forms and reports so that families have the appropriate documentation for school and for applying for funding.

Available assessments

• Occupational Therapy Assessment
• Dyspraxia Assessment
• Handwriting Assessment
• Sensory Integration Assessment
• Autism Observation Schedule-Second Edition (ADOS-2)
• Neuro-Developmental Assessment, INPP Method
• School Observation Assessment
• Housing Assessment

Available treatments

• Occupational Therapy
• Sensory Integration Therapy
• Tomatis Listening Method
• Safe and Sound Protocol Listening Therapy (SSP)
• Neuro-Developmental Therapy, INPP Method
• Handwriting Without Tears
• Wilbarger Therapressure Protocol for Sensory Defensiveness
• Sensory Diets
• Astronaut Training Program

Areas of care

Among the difficulties the clinic addresses are sensory processing disorder (SPD), developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders (including Asperger's syndrome), ADHD and attention and concentration difficulties, dyspraxia (DCD) and motor planning problems, balance and vestibular disorders, auditory and language processing delays, emotional and behavioural regulation difficulties, genetic conditions such as fragile X syndrome and Down syndrome, and difficulties related to trauma and stress.

Team and approach

The team consists of six qualified therapists and the clinic has four sensory rooms. The professionals include Aneta Schwieterman, founder and clinical director; Nazish A Qadir and Angela Jackson, senior occupational therapists, and Ashish Singh, occupational therapist. The company maintains that each plan is personalised according to the child's goals and strengths, but is also built around the support network at home and school, with collaboration, education and practical guidance so that families can carry progress beyond the clinic. The clinic also states that its work is guided by collaboration with neurodivergent individuals and their families.

Facilities and activity

The clinic operates in Dublin and works with children, adolescents and adults. Its offering includes 20 paediatric services and, according to the data it publishes, it has supported over 4,000 children since its foundation. The company presents itself as an inclusive space committed to fair access to the support each child needs.

Location and contact

Unit 6 Long Mile Road Business Park (Aldi Centre), Walkinstown, Dublin 12, D12 XV0C · Email: info@sensorykids.ie · Hours: Monday to Friday: clinic 9:15 to 18:20; office 9:00 to 13:30 and 14:20 to 17:30