The majority of us take for granted that the way we hear and see makes logical sense. We can hear slight differences between sounds and determine the direction a sound is coming from. We look at various objects in a group and can pinpoint the specific sounds coming from each object. But for children with spatial processing disorder, these simple abilities are a daily struggle.

Children with SPD look and see things differently than their peers because their brains don’t fully coordinate the information they receive. It’s a problem that affects not only the way they hear but also the way they learn. Many children with SPD struggle to pay attention in class and build listening skills that will allow them to reach their potential.

Auditory training software has been developed to aid kids ages 6-12 remediate SPD and help them to succeed in the classroom. Sound Storm for iPad, iPhones and Android uses engaging gameplay to help keep children motivated through the remediation activities  - and overcome SPD altogether.

What Is Spatial Processing Disorder?

Spatial processing disorder affects the sense of hearing in children and adults. For example, someone with SPD may have trouble focusing on specific sounds when they hear multiple sounds at once.

To be clear, SPD is not a matter of cognitive function, nor is it a speech or language deficit. Children with SPD can hear at a normal volume and speak clearly. The problem lies in the way they process the information they hear, and therefore in the way they’re able to retain and respond to the information they’re exposed to.

If these struggles go unaddressed, students with SPD are likely to face academic challenges.

How SPD Affects Children in the Classroom

Children are largely affected by SPD at school since the majority of information is delivered through verbal instruction. Because they have trouble processing auditory information, they may be unable to draw inferences from their reading, struggle to comprehend verbal math problems, and misunderstand the context of conversations. They find it hard to focus when there’s a lot of background noise and have difficulty with following directions. In some children, SPD may also affect their ability to read, write, or spell.

How Is SPD Treated in Kids?

Children that have been diagnosed with SPD may benefit from seeing an audiologist or a speech and language therapist on a regular basis. These professionals are trained in auditory processing disorders like SPD and can provide guidance and support to set children up for success in the classroom.

In addition, teachers who are familiar with SPD’s effects on learning may be able to make accommodations in class. Children with SPD may be given preferred seating to better hear and see the instructions being provided. Make sure the student has written down any directions or assignments so they can refer back to them instead of relying on verbal instruction or memory alone. Teachers should also try to minimise any background noise to help the students focus. Some children may find it beneficial to complete assignments or tests in an area away from other students to minimise distractions.

Most importantly, teachers need to be able to recognise when a student may be suffering from SPD symptoms. Many students may feel embarrassed to let their teacher know they haven’t understood the directions, so teachers should be willing to meet students wherever they are to provide support and boost their self-esteem.

The Benefits of Sound Storm as a Remediation Tool for SPD

Digital technologies and apps are being increasingly used in the classroom, and the Sound Storm app may be one of the best remediation tools for students with SPD. Sound Storm for iPad and Android tablets was designed specifically for students who struggle with spatial processing. The app wraps the science of a clinical remediation algorithm around an engaging and compelling game. It combines multiple reward mechanics with a rich and captivating narrative that can help kids focus, learn, and improve or eliminate SPD’s effects.

Sound Storm uses creative intergalactic gameplay that takes course over ten levels and nine unique worlds. Students work through each level and world in an ongoing narrative that keeps them engaged and encourages their participation.

The game also contains a multi-layered reward system that allows kids to unlock daily, weekly, and benchmark rewards to encourage ongoing gameplay. Each new level advances the storyline. On the surface, Sound Storm is an exciting adventure. But what the kids don’t see is the clinically designed algorithm that forms the foundation of the game. Their gameplay is transformed into clinical data that can be used by audiologists to gauge their progression.

In fact, clinical studies have shown that 100% of children with SPD who complete the 10-12 week program are remediated of Spatial Processing Disorder. The relaunch of Sound Storm for iPad, iPhone and Android provides a powerful remediation tool that will improve the academic success of students who struggle with SPD.