The Sensory System

The five senses play an important role in our everyday life. They shine a light, and provide a picture of our world. The brain and nervous system play a crucial role in perceiving and processing external information and signals from within our bodies, and in responding accordingly.

The brain uses information such as sounds, smells, tastes, textures, movement and gravity in an organised and effective manner. The experience is then interpreted by the individual, allowing them to respond to a situation as needed.

Some examples include that in order for an infant to eat smooth-textured food, such as pureed pumpkin, a new pattern of tongue movements, and a stable head and jaw is necessary.

  1. The touch (tactile) system interprets anything which is touched, i.e the feel of playdough or sand.
  2. The auditory system interprets what we hear and allows us to be selective or filter the auditory stimuli.
  3. The visual system can visually scan and assess what is happening in the environment due to smooth and precise eye movements.
  4. Taste and smell work in synchronicity. The smell of food determines whether it will be explored and eaten. An unusual or unfamiliar smell sends a message to the brain (limbic) system and tells us not to eat it, or that we may not like it.

Proprioception, Vestibular System and Interoception Complete the Sensory System

  1. Proprioception is a part of our internal sensory system. It incorporates joints, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue. It acts as a reminder where our body parts are and what they are doing, i.e. lifting our leg to go up a set of steps.
  1. The vestibular system is a part of the inner ear and helps us perceive and adapt to changes in gravity. It detects if we are standing, sitting, lying down or standing still.  Proprioception, auditory and visual senses of the body are linked to the vestibular system.
  1. Interoception reminds us about the physical state of our body, i.e how you are feeling, are you hungry? The brain’s ability to receive, interpret, and combine signals from within the body assists in decision-making and emotion regulation. An understanding and awareness of these sensations can impact how they manage feelings and overall well-being.

Taking a moment to pause and notice the development of these senses through everyday moments. Consider how smells, textures, sounds contribute to development as experienced by the infant through everyday moments.

References

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