My Child Was Just Identified with an Autism Spectrum Disorder: Now What Do I Do? Strategies for the Home - Addressing Sensory Differences

Timmy – 6 years old Often likes to be alone in his bedroom Chews on inedible objects Picky eater and likes crackers and chips He pulls the tags off of his shirts Becomes anxious in over-stimulating environments, such as the grocery store Will cover his ears and will make loud squeals

Timmy – Sensory Differences Noise Movement Touch Oral Food /textures

The Sensory Systems Visual Auditory Taste Smell Touch Vestibular Proprioception

Sensory Response Continuum (Dunn) Hypo-responsive = under-responsive –Need more stimuli to react –Seek many sensory experiences Hyper-responsive = over-responsive –Can’t block out stimuli and get overwhelmed –Avoid or be unwilling to try new things

The Sensory Systems Visual Auditory Taste Smell

The Power Systems Touch Vestibular Proprioception

Sensory Defensiveness (P. Wilbarger) The over activation of our protective sense (flight, fright, or fight reaction)

Addressing Sensory Differences What does your child seek? What does your child avoid? Monitor sensory needs & comfort levels Provide sensory activities daily Expand sensory experiences slowly

Work with an Occupational Therapist Regulation of the Sensory Systems

Naturalistic Sensory Activities - Motor - Nature walking Rolling, crawling, climbing Running Jumping Climbing stairs Swinging Digging Biking Swimming Carrying library books Pulling wagon

Accommodations and Modifications Reduce visual distractions –Organize clothes, toys –Keep area clean –Cover or put away materials/toys not in use –Offer access to fewer items at one time

Accommodations and Modifications Auditory modifications –Use music for transitions –Limit verbal exchanges –Allow for processing time –Minimize distracting sounds –Use headphones –Muffle or forewarn about loud sounds

Accommodations and Modifications Clothing modifications  Seamless socks  Tight leggings or tights  Spandex bike shorts  Tagless shirts  Soft materials

Sensory Emergency Kit Items: Sample List (Zaks, 2006) Sunglasses Walkman, earplugs, or noise cancellation earphones Snacks/drinks/gum/candy Tactile items/small toys Extra clothing

Conclusion Identify your Child’s Sensory Needs and Sensory Strategies that may be Helpful