Recognizing the Midas Touch of a ParentÂ’s Hand
Sensory integration can change a childÂ’s world
Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) March 10, 2005
Vivian Nelson Melle, a former special educator and mental health counselor, knows the benefits of sensory integration. She knows children, as well as adults, have different reactions to their environment. Last year, Nelson Melle merged her expertise in childhood education and knowledge of natural products to launch her website, MamitaÂ’s Creations.
Nelson Melle says sensory integration has changed the world of special education by offering some explanation for many childhood behavior issues. To illustrate various reactions to stimuli, Nelson Melle proposes the example of scraping a fingernail across a chalkboard. “Most people grimace and feel uncomfortable,” she reports. “That very same feeling may be what a child experiences when merely being hugged,” Nelson Melle further explains. She maintains while many children enjoy soft cuddling; some children may need a firm caress to feel secure and less anxious. The first touches of a parent to their newborn baby, the rambunctious tumbling of toddlers, and the tender wiping of a child’s tear form a distinct perception of their surroundings.
Throughout her span of over twenty years in the field of education, Nelson Melle realized the benefits of a simple sensory activity, the massage. “I’ve witnessed hyperactive youngsters becoming relaxed and rested after gentle foot massages,” she said. “Additionally, I’ve offered anxious teens some lotion to massage into their hands and observed them soon speaking and writing their thoughts in a relaxed manner,” she states.
As humans, the sense of touch is one of the most important forms of expression. Nelson Melle’s decision to help other parents came shortly after having her daughter. Although she knows sensory integration has changed the world of special education, she passionately believes everyone can benefit. Parents naturally soothe a crying baby with touch. Often today, meeting leaders ask attendees to stand up and stretch. Indeed, we all can benefit the Midas touch. Everyone, especially parents, should seek more information about sensory integration. Nelson Melle knows educators and parents with limited budgets search for “do it yourself” help on sensory integration. She offers free information and seminars to parents. For a small fee, schools and organizations may also offer staff and members her trainings.
More information on sensory integration or the products Nelson Melle offers, please contact her or visit her site at www. mamitascreations. com.
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