Transcript of the Episode

When we say sensory we’re talking about the way your child’s brain processes how the world feels on their skin and how they feel in their own bodies. They could have a an over sensitivity, and under sensitivity or even a combination of both. Many people with autism don’t register pain the way others do- they could fall and scrape their knee and not even flinch, but the sensation of a tag on the back of their shirt could send them into a full rage. It’s important to know that many of these issues are not going to seem to make sense until you can see it in the context of how their brain processes information and input. Sensory issues can also include temperatures such as hot and cold, the need for pressure on their bodies and the difficulties a child can have with paying attention in class when these issues are present.

The main professional in charge of this area would be an occupational therapist; when my son was first diagnosed, an occupational therapist wasn’t even on my radar, because I assumed they handled motor skill issues. Because my son could put puzzles together at the age of 2, and use a pincer grasp effectively, I didn’t see the need for an OT. But when I learned that they also can help kids regulate the sensory system, through a modality called sensory integration therapy, we went for an evaluation and then treatment. When my son started working with a qualified OT, she helped me realize some of the additional areas where he was struggling and how they were connected to knowing where his body was in space.