Fuzzy Buzzy Groups for Children with Developmental and Sensory Processing Difficulties

Fuzzy Buzzy Groups is written by two experienced occupational therapists as a resource for early years settings, children's centres and other professionals working with young children. It provides a clear structure which can be used to set up and run a small group addressing the needs of young children with sensory processing difficulties. The book appears to have been well researched by the authors, who note that "statistically significant improvements... in the children's sensory processing and behaviour" were achieved after participation in the programme. The book is attractively presented and clearly written making it easy to follow for all early years practitioners. The authors have identified a range of benefits the groups may have for children and there are curriculum links. The activities are designed to be appealing to children aged two to five years or slightly older children with learning difficulties... it provides just enough basic information on sensory processing and child development to give the reader the underlying knowledge they need in order to run a group, including selecting appropriate children, understanding the relevance of the activities and evaluating progress. The activities are clearly explained with objectives for each step of the sessions, and important advice is provided on adapting them if children appear over-stimulated. The repetition and routine are especially important for children with sensory processing needs to reduce anxiety, and children will benefit from the social opportunities as well as the sensory activities. Fuzzy Buzzy Groups is a useful resource for those working with young children with sensory processing needs. It would be particularly appropriate for groups in children's centres but also nurseries, pre-schools and special schools. I enjoyed reading the book and it is a much-needed resource in early years.

Overall, this book is simple, straightforward and clearly laid out. It provides a detailed guide of a group format for a specific clinical group with plenty of additional resources, including a CD of music to accompany the group. A complete package of a seven-step, eight-week programme with theoretical explanations and worksheets is a valuable resource. It would be a useful book for occupational therapy assistants who are skilled at developing group programmes and have a good understanding of sensory processing disorders.