Understanding Sensory Processing in Autism: How Milestone Therapy Group Can Help

The world can be a beautiful and overwhelming place for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Sensory experiences, sights, sounds, touches, tastes, and smells, that most of us process unconsciously, can be intense and even frightening for a child with autism. This is due to sensory processing differences, a common characteristic of ASD.

At Milestone Therapy Group, we understand the challenges these sensory processing differences can create. This blog will explore the connection between sensory processing and autism, and how autism occupational therapy can help children navigate their sensory world.

Sensory Processing and Autism: A Spectrum of Experiences

Children with autism experience sensory information differently. Some may be hypersensitive, meaning everyday sounds, textures, or lights feel overwhelming. Others may be hyposensitive, seeking out intense sensory experiences like deep pressure or loud noises. Some may even experience a combination of both, making the sensory world unpredictable and confusing.

These sensory processing differences can manifest in various ways:

• Meltdowns: When overwhelmed by sensory input, a child might have a meltdown, characterized by crying, tantrums, or self-injurious behaviors.
• Selective Mutism: Some children may withdraw and become nonverbal in overwhelming sensory environments.
• Difficulty with Daily Activities: Sensory sensitivities can make tasks like dressing, eating, or brushing teeth challenging.
• Social Interaction Issues: Difficulties processing social cues like facial expressions or body language can hinder social interactions.

Autism Occupational Therapy: Unlocking Potential Through Sensory Strategies

Occupational therapists (OTs) are trained professionals who can help children with autism develop strategies to manage their sensory world. At Milestone Therapy Group, our OTs use a variety of techniques to achieve this:

• Sensory Integration Activities: These playful activities help children regulate their sensory responses through movement, play, and exposure to different sensory experiences in a safe and controlled environment.
• Creating a Sensory Diet: An OT can help create a personalized sensory diet, incorporating activities and tools that provide the sensory input a child craves or helps them calm down when overwhelmed.
• Environmental Modifications: Minor adjustments to the home or classroom environment, like noise-cancelling headphones or weighted blankets, can significantly reduce sensory overload.
• Social Skills Development: OTs can help children with autism understand and interpret social cues by incorporating sensory strategies into social interaction activities.

Milestone Therapy Group: Partnering for Progress

At Milestone Therapy Group, we believe in a collaborative approach. We work closely with parents, educators, and other therapists to create a comprehensive program that addresses each child's unique sensory needs. Our goal is to empower children with autism to develop the skills they need to participate fully in everyday life and build meaningful connections with the world around them.

Does your child with autism struggle with sensory processing? Milestone Therapy Group can help. Contact us today at 610-753-4946 for a consultation and let's explore how we can unlock your child's potential together.