The treatment of children with speech and language disorders is normally carried out by speech therapists but, due to the fact that they also present with a variety of perceptual-motor problems, an occupational therapist may be involved in the treatment. Recent research from the USA suggests that occupational therapy, using a sensory integrative (SI) approach, can have a direct, beneficial effect on speech and language development. In some cases, the child may initially benefit more from occupational therapy than from speech therapy. This article examines the theoretical implications of using an SI approach to treatment, with particular emphasis being given to vestibular stimulation. It is, primarily, intended to be a literature review in preparation for a research project currently being carried out by the author
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