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Sensory Input Therapy
Sensory input therapy, or sensory therapy assists individuals, particularly children, in enhancing their sensory processing, resulting in improved regulation and responses. Frequently used by occupational therapists, this therapy helps individuals manage sensory responses through activities like swinging, deep pressure (such as weighted blankets), tactile exploration, and brushing, which boost their capacity to effectively process sensory information. At CBS, we do many activities to help stimulate sensory processing to achieve the individuals goals. Both locations also have a customized sensory play gym that offers a safe environment to explore a variety of sensory experiences. Sensory gyms are utilized to help improve a child's confidence, coordination, and sensory processing (2025).
Sensory Challenges for Individuals with Autism
Not every person with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) faces sensory challenges, but many do. Most individuals with ASD encounter variations in how they perceive sensory input, at least occasionally, while some may struggle significantly with specific sensory experiences. It's essential to recognize that we all deal with sensory sensitivities. Each of us reacts to sensory stimuli from our surroundings in unique ways. For example, you might find the sensation of soft blankets comforting, whereas another person could feel unsettled by the same texture. Similarly, you may feel invigorated by a warm cup of coffee, while someone else may find a cold cup more energizing, despite both containing the same caffeine level. This illustrates that everyone has distinct sensory preferences and methods for processing sensory input (Elwin, Schröder, Wallsten, and Kjellin, 2013).
Sensory Experiences and Their Examples
Pain
Individuals with autism may perceive pain differently than others. For example, some might not feel pain as intensely, leading to situations where a child can sustain a cut and bleed without realizing it, while others may experience the same injury as significantly more painful.
Hearing
Certain sounds can be particularly distressing or overwhelming for some individuals with autism. While most people can probably name a few sounds they dislike, those with this sensitivity often experience heightened stress in response to specific noises that may not affect others.
Touch
Many children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) find certain textures to be quite uncomfortable. They may struggle to wear particular types of clothing or to touch certain materials due to the sensations they provoke.
Smell
Some individuals with ASD have strong preferences for specific scents or may find certain smells extremely unpleasant. An overactive sense of smell can complicate life, as they are continually exposed to various odors, particularly problematic if they encounter those they find offensive. This sensitivity might be mistakenly interpreted as an allergy, so it's essential to rule out any medical issues if your child seems particularly bothered by certain smells.
Sight
Some children either enjoy or are disturbed by particular visual stimuli. For instance, certain kids may find themselves captivated by a flashing light on a toy, staring at it for an extended period.
References
​Elwin M;Schröder A;Ek L;Wallsten T;Kjellin L; (n.d.). 2013. Sensory clusters of adults with and without autism spectrum conditions. Journal of autism and developmental disorders. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27921201/
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Types of sensory issues in autism. Behavioral Innovations. (2025, January 7). https://behavioral-innovations.com/blog/types-of-sensory-issues-in-autism-examples-and-treatment-options/