Sensory Circuits

Synopsis

A new programme of physical activities for helping children with sensory integration difficulties.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Sensory Circuits

* Introduces the concept of sensory circuits, which connect sensory receptors to the brain and spinal cord, allowing us to perceive our surroundings.
* Discusses the basic structure of a sensory circuit, including receptors, afferent neurons, and sensory processing centers.
* Example: The visual circuit: Light enters the eyes, stimulating retinal cells (receptors). Signals are transmitted via the optic nerve (afferent neurons) to the visual cortex in the brain (sensory processing center).

Chapter 2: Somatic Sensory System

* Examines the senses responsible for touch, temperature, and body position.
* Discusses the different types of sensory receptors in the skin and muscles.
* Example: Touch sensation: Mechanoreceptors in the skin detect pressure and vibration, sending signals to the somatosensory cortex in the brain.

Chapter 3: Chemical Sensory Systems

* Explores the senses of taste and smell.
* Discusses the structure and function of taste buds and olfactory receptors.
* Example: Taste sensation: Chemicals in food bind to receptors on taste cells, sending signals to the gustatory cortex in the brain.

Chapter 4: Visual System

* Provides an in-depth look at the structure and function of the visual system.
* Discusses the different layers of the retina, the role of photoreceptors, and the visual pathways to the brain.
* Example: Color vision: Different types of cone cells in the retina are sensitive to specific wavelengths of light, allowing us to perceive colors.

Chapter 5: Auditory System

* Examines the structures and mechanisms involved in hearing.
* Discusses the function of the outer ear, middle ear, inner ear, and auditory pathways to the brain.
* Example: Pitch perception: Sound waves of different frequencies cause the basilar membrane in the inner ear to vibrate at specific locations, transmitting signals to the auditory cortex.

Chapter 6: Vestibular System

* Explores the sense of balance and spatial orientation.
* Discusses the structures of the inner ear involved in detecting head position and acceleration.
* Example: Motion sickness: Mismatch between the vestibular system and visual input can cause nausea and dizziness in certain situations.

Chapter 7: Sensorimotor Integration

* Examines how sensory information is integrated with motor control.
* Discusses the role of the cerebellum, basal ganglia, and other structures in coordinating movement with sensory feedback.
* Example: Playing piano: Sensory feedback from the fingers helps the cerebellum refine motor commands for accurate keystrokes.

Chapter 8: Sensory Adaptation and Plasticity

* Explores how sensory circuits adapt to changing stimuli.
* Discusses the role of neural plasticity in sensory development and learning.
* Example: Habituation: Repeated exposure to a stimulus reduces neural responses in sensory circuits, enhancing our ability to focus on new stimuli.