21/09/2025
Experts have found that over 80% of children with autism also have sensory processing disorder.
Sensory Processing Red Flags 🚩
1. Over-responsive to sensory input:
Expresses discomfort in response to loud sounds or bright lights
Aversive to light touch, teeth brushing, hair grooming, or clothing textures
Hesitant to climb and use moving playground equipment (swings, bikes)
Gags in response to certain smells or food textures
2. Under-responsive to sensory input:
Constantly “on the move”
Does not appear to register sensory stimuli, such as being touched or bumped
Craves frequent or intense sensory experiences (climbing, jumping, crashing)
3. Motor Skill Challenges
Appears clumsy
A limited repertoire of play activities
Difficulty letting peers “take the lead” in play
Avoids novel play activities or environments
4. Self-Regulation Challenges
Easily distracted by visual stimuli or background sounds
Becomes overwhelmed, has meltdowns, or avoids multi-sensory environments, such as birthday parties, public events, or the classroom
Has difficulty transitioning between environments or activities
