Children with Autism tend to have sensory processing difficulties. Typically, these may include sensory overload or sensory deficit. We have five senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. If our brain is unable to process sensory input, we may have a distorted image of the world around us. For a child, this can be confusing or even scary.
If a child struggles with sensory overload, he/she may become overwhelmed by too much sensory input. Lights may be too bright, fabrics may be too hot or scratchy, the list goes on and on. Children who become overwhelmed may exhibit behaviors that look like tantrums, when really the child is simply trying to process what is going on around him/her. Children with sensory overload must learn coping skills and be provided with tools to help calm the input received. Please see below for a link to sensory overload resources:
If a child struggles with sensory deficit, he/she may not be processing enough sensory input. Children who struggle with this challenge may not be able to see well, may not respond to touch or may appear clumsy. Children with sensory deficits may appear generally unresponsive to the world around them. Children with sensory deficits should be provided with methods to increase their ability to process and sensitivity to the world around them. Please see below for a link to sensory stimulation resources:
Growing Hands on Kids: https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/
This blog outlines so many ideas for growing the whole child! Focused on OT based skills, there are many ideas for motor skills, sensory, handwriting, and so much more!
Pink Oatmeal: https://www.pinkoatmeal.com/
Motor activities to keep kids moving!
And Next Comes L: https://www.andnextcomesl.com/
This blog centers around struggles that many children face growing up. Anxiety, ADHD, sensory processing, and more are discussed along with ideas to help children cope as they grow.
Sensory Spectrum: http://www.thesensoryspectrum.com/
An online sensory community with resources and discussion boards about different types of sensory processing throughout childhood.
Project Sensory: https://thesensoryproject.com/blogs/sensory-processing-disorder-and-adopted-kids
This blog incorporates ideas for "messy play" and ideas for sensory experiences to regulate a child's ability to process sensory input