Sensory experiences are a fundamental part of everyday life, but for children with sensory processing disorder (SPD), these experiences can feel overwhelming or confusing. Sensory processing disorder, often associated with autism, affects how a child processes sensory information, making certain stimuli either too intense or not noticeable enough.
In this article, we’ll explore how sensory processing disorder impacts autistic children and offer practical tips for parents to support their children in navigating the world of sensory overload and under-responsiveness.
What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?
Sensory processing disorder occurs when the brain has difficulty interpreting and responding to sensory information from the environment. This can include touch, sound, light, taste, and even movement. Children with SPD might be overly sensitive (hypersensitive) or under-sensitive (hyposensitive) to sensory stimuli.
For example, a child may find bright lights, loud noises, or even the texture of certain fabrics unbearable, while another child might seek out intense sensations like spinning or jumping. Understanding these sensory preferences and challenges is essential for helping children manage their environments comfortably.
Common Signs of Sensory Processing Issues in Autistic Children
Children with SPD may display a range of sensory behaviors, such as:
Hypersensitivity (Over-responsiveness):
Avoiding certain textures or materials (e.g., clothes, food)
Discomfort in loud or crowded environments
Sensitivity to bright lights or strong smells
Difficulty with being touched unexpectedly
Hyposensitivity (Under-responsiveness):
Seeking out intense physical activity (e.g., spinning, crashing into objects)
Not noticing sensations like pain, heat, or cold
Lack of awareness of personal space or body position
Needing loud music or TV to feel engaged
Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment at Home
Establish a Sensory Safe Space Create a sensory-friendly corner or room in your home where your child can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. This space should be calming and include soft lighting, quiet sounds, and comfortable seating like beanbags or weighted blankets. Sensory-friendly spaces give your child a place to regulate and decompress.
Provide Sensory Breaks Incorporate regular sensory breaks into your child's day to help them reset. Whether it's a few minutes of quiet time in a dimly lit room or a physical activity like jumping on a trampoline, these breaks can help prevent sensory overload and improve focus.
Use Visual Schedules Visual schedules are a great tool to help children anticipate changes in their daily routine, reducing anxiety and sensory overload. By using pictures or symbols to represent each part of the day, you can help your child better prepare for transitions, which are often challenging for children with sensory sensitivities.
Introduce Calming Activities Engage your child in calming sensory activities, such as deep-pressure massages, squeezing stress balls, or engaging with sensory bins filled with rice, beans, or sand. These activities can help regulate your child’s sensory system and provide comfort.
Adapt the Environment Based on Sensory Needs If your child is hypersensitive, consider reducing sensory input by using noise-canceling headphones, dimming lights, or avoiding certain textures that cause discomfort. For hyposensitive children, provide opportunities for sensory input through activities like swinging, jumping, or textured toys that stimulate their senses.
Helping Your Child Thrive with Sensory Processing Disorder
As a parent, understanding your child’s sensory needs is key to supporting their development and well-being. Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. By creating a sensory-friendly environment and incorporating sensory activities into your child’s daily routine, you can help them feel more comfortable and confident as they navigate the world.
Sensory processing disorder may present unique challenges, but with patience, observation, and a supportive environment, you can empower your child to thrive. At Scarlett’s Autism Therapy Centre, we are here to help families understand and support their child’s sensory needs through early intervention and personalised care.