Book Review

The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun

by Carol Kranowitz

“Not all children are easy to play with.”
TRUDE TURNQUIST, PHD, OTR/L

For parents of children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), play time can quickly turn into stress and tears. Activities naturally enjoyed by other children become sources of pain, frustration and fear for kids who are “out-of-sync.” Fortunately, Carol Kranowitz, in The Out-of- Sync Child Has Fun, provides time-tested ways to turn the struggle into learning and fun.

In this companion volume to The Out-of-Sync Child, Kranowitz deconstructs the complex and confusing terminology and science of SPD and sensory integration therapy into an easy-to understand narrative and activity guide for parents. She devotes a chapter to each of the sensory systems – tactile (touch), vestibular (balance and movement), proprioceptive (body position), visual, auditory, olfactory (smell) and gustatory (taste). Each chapter is jam-packed with easy and practical games, crafts and exercises to help develop skills and strengths in each sensory area.

All of the 115 activities in the book are held to the standard of SAFE – Sensory-motor, Appropriate, Fun and Easy – and are designed to help children make the critical connection between sensory responses to their environment and motor responses to the sensory cues. Kranowitz states, “Three dimensional, hands-on, hard-work play builds better brains and bodies.” Piggy Toe Pick-Up, Crash Pad, Squeeze a Breeze and Bubble Gum Blow are just some of the activities that generate loads of fun while strengthening skills.

With a glossary, a SAFE Activities Toy Chest list, an activity cross reference chart, and generous advice and experiential anecdotes from parents and professionals, The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun will quickly become the “bible” of sensory integration for many parents. With this book in hand, parents will understand, on a practical and meaningful level, the “value” of their children’s play.

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