Understanding Sensory Sensitivities

Sensory sensitivities affect many autistic individuals in ways that are often misunderstood or overlooked. These sensitivities go beyond simple preferences or dislikes; they can shape daily experiences and impact well-being. Recognising the subtle and varied ways sensory sensitivities show up is key to supporting autistic people effectively.

What Are Sensory Sensitivities?

Sensory sensitivities refer to how a person perceives and reacts to sensory input such as sounds, lights, textures, smells, tastes, and movement. For autistic individuals, these responses can be stronger, weaker, or different compared to neurotypical people. Sensory sensitivities are not uniform and they can vary widely from person to person.

Sensory experiences can include:

• Hypersensitivity: Over-responsiveness to stimuli. For example, a sound that seems normal to others might feel painfully loud or distracting.

• Hyposensitivity: Under-responsiveness, where a person may seek out more intense sensory input to feel regulated.

• Sensory seeking: Craving certain sensations, such as rocking, spinning, or touching specific textures.

• Sensory avoidance: Actively avoiding certain stimuli that cause discomfort or distress.

  
  

These sensitivities can affect any of the senses, including touch, hearing, sight, taste, smell, proprioception (body awareness), and vestibular sense (balance and movement).

How Sensory Sensitivities Show Up in Daily Life

Sensory sensitivities often influence behaviour and comfort in subtle ways. Here are some examples:

• Clothing choices: Tags, seams, or certain fabrics may cause irritation or distress, leading to refusal to wear some clothes.

• Noise sensitivity: Crowded places or sudden loud noises can trigger anxiety or shutdowns.

• Food preferences: Texture and taste sensitivities might limit diet to specific foods.

• Light sensitivity: Bright or flickering lights can cause headaches or discomfort.

• Touch sensitivity: Some may find light touch overwhelming, while others seek deep pressure for comfort.

• Movement needs: Some individuals may need to move frequently or engage in repetitive motions to feel calm.

  
  

Understanding these behaviours as sensory responses and needs can help individuals know more about themselves, and can help caregivers, educators, and peers respond with empathy and support.

Practical Ways to Meet Sensory Needs

Meeting sensory needs requires observation, flexibility, and creativity. Here are some strategies that can make a significant difference:

Create Sensory-Friendly Spaces

• Use soft lighting or natural light instead of harsh fluorescents.

• Provide quiet zones or noise-canceling headphones for noisy environments.

• Include comfortable seating options like bean bags or weighted blankets.

• Use calming colours and minimise clutter to reduce visual overload.

  
  

Offer Sensory Tools and Supports

• Provide fidget toys, textured objects, or stress balls for tactile input.

• Use chewable jewellery or safe oral sensory items for those who seek oral stimulation.

• Offer weighted vests or lap pads to provide deep pressure calming.

• Incorporate movement breaks with swings, rocking chairs, or balance balls.

  
  

Adapt Clothing and Personal Items

• Choose tagless, seamless, or soft fabric clothing.

• Allow choice in footwear and accessories to avoid discomfort.

• Use gloves or sleeves if touch sensitivity is an issue.

  
  

Communicate and Collaborate

• Ask the individual about their preferences and what helps them feel comfortable.

• Observe reactions and adjust supports accordingly.

• Educate family, friends, and educators about sensory sensitivities to foster understanding.

• Encourage self-advocacy by supporting the individual in expressing their needs.

  
  

Why Understanding Sensory Sensitivities Matters

Recognising sensory sensitivities as a core part of the autistic experience promotes respect and inclusion. When sensory needs are met, autistic individuals can engage more fully in learning, work, social activities, and self-care. It reduces stress, improves mood, and supports overall health.

Sensory sensitivities are not a problem to fix but a difference to understand and accommodate. By listening, observing, and adapting, we can build environments that honour sensory diversity and empower autistic people.