Sensory processing differences

Sensory processing differences describe how a child takes in and reacts to the senses. That includes sights, sounds, touch, smells and tastes, plus balance and body position. Some children react more strongly than others, some react less, and some seek out extra input. Over- or under-reacting to the senses is part of the autism criteria. It also shows up with anxiety, attention problems and other conditions. So on its own, it doesn't mean a child is autistic.

"Sensory processing disorder" isn't in the manual used to diagnose autism. In 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) said it generally shouldn't be diagnosed, while some researchers use a separate early childhood manual. Jean Ayres, an occupational therapist, created sensory integration therapy in the 1970s, and views on it differ. The AAP calls its evidence for autism limited and unclear, while a 2020 national review found evidence for one form, Ayres Sensory Integration.

Your child might seem not to notice pain, heat or cold, or get upset by certain sounds or textures. If you're worried, the AAP says to start with your child's pediatrician. Then an occupational therapist usually checks how your child takes in the senses.

Some therapies use brushing or weighted vests. These aren't the same as the Ayres form, which trained therapists give. If your child tries one, the AAP suggests treating it as a trial with a clear way to judge it. A sensory diet doesn't replace an evaluation.

• Judging a therapy: If a sensory therapy is suggested, ask how long the trial lasts and how you'll tell whether it helps.
• What the behavior does: Ask your Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) whether a sensory-seeking behavior gives your child its own payoff, and how the plan can offer safe ways to get that input.