Autism and Sensory Integration

One of the major factors for developmental delay in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is reduced capacity for sensory processing. Sensory integration therapy (SIT) addresses sensory processing challenges in children with autism, by providing controlled sensory experiences. Through tailored activities and exercises, such as movement, tactile stimulation and deep pressure, the therapy aims to improve sensory processing skills, self-regulation and participation in daily activities. Collaboration among parents, therapists and professionals is vital to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. SIT is just one aspect of a holistic approach and its effectiveness varies for each individual. It plays a role in promoting adaptive responses to sensory input and enhancing the overall well-being of children with autism.

If you are a regular user of social media, or an avid reader in general, you are likely to have come across the terms 'neurotypical' and 'neurodivergent' at some point to describe individuals. Let’s dive deeper into their meaning...

Neurotypical is a term that is generally used to describe a person who does not express neurologically atypical thoughts, mannerisms, or behaviours. Such a person thinks, perceives and behaves in ways that are considered 'normal' by society.

In contrast, neurodivergence represents people who have an altered perception of their surroundings and general experiences, primarily by virtue of a difference in brain development.

This term helps us embrace the fact that there are varied ways of perceiving, comprehending and reacting - and is, therefore, a lot more inclusive and preferable description.

Autism spectrum disorder is one such condition that falls under the umbrella of neurodivergence. As the name suggests, it varies considerably over a spectrum. Some individuals face fewer barriers in day-to-day life, whilst others may have significant sensory deficits, meaning that basic communication is a huge challenge. Children with autism typically have trouble with imagination or rigidity of thoughts, communication and interaction.

A lot of interactional and behavioural issues stem from the fact that children with autism are unable to process sensory information like children with normal brain development. Infants and toddlers who have trouble processing sensory information are unable to adapt to their environments or exercise self-control. When they are young, babies can be fussy, cry a lot, be challenging to console, or struggle with routine changes. Alternately, they could sleep a lot and spend little time awake, appear unaware of sounds that others hear, or experience delays in motor development. These newborns' sensory processing deficiencies may worsen as they get older and affect how they engage in activities, like getting dressed, taking care of themselves and eating.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For example, 'A' is a seven year-old child with a self-injurious habit of biting his wrists. This indicates that he may be seeking sensory input, but is unable to perceive it well enough. This explains why he tends to injure himself frequently and voluntarily.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Four basic categories of sensory processing deficits in early children were described by Dunn:

Low registration

These kids pay less attention to their surroundings. Despite having a more laid-back demeanour than others, they could exhibit behaviours that hinder their ability to learn, like failing to answer when their name is called and finding it more challenging to complete activities.
 

Sensation seeking

These kids need more sensory stimulation than normal kids and will look for highly stimulating events. Because they are often distracted by sensory stimuli and may find ways to give themselves sensory input - such as through constant movement or humming - they may struggle to finish activities.
 

Sensation avoiding

These kids have a propensity to pay closer attention to their surroundings than other kids do, making them susceptible to sensory overload. They prefer to be in peaceful locations, are frequently alone and isolate themselves from other people.
 

Sensory sensitivity

These kids are more sensitive to sensation than other kids and they often get agitated and distracted by sensory experiences that other kids would not even notice.

To address sensory integration challenges in autistic children, a therapeutic approach called sensory integration therapy, or sensory-based interventions, is often used. The main goal of this therapy is to help children effectively process and integrate sensory information, so they can participate in daily activities and engage more successfully with their environment.

Sensory integration therapy typically involves working with an occupational therapist (OT), who specialises in sensory integration techniques. The therapist creates a tailored treatment plan based on the child's specific sensory needs, after assessing the child through various assessment tools and batteries.

The therapy may include a variety of activities and exercises designed to provide sensory input and help the child gradually adapt and respond appropriately to sensory stimuli.

These activities may involve swinging, spinning, jumping on a trampoline, playing with tactile materials, engaging in deep-pressure activities, or using weighted blankets or vests to provide calming input. The therapist may also incorporate visual cues, auditory stimuli and activities that promote body awareness and coordination. It is important to identify the category of sensory processing difficulties, as improper stimuli may also prove to be harmful to a child’s development and cause him/her to be more agitated than before.

By providing controlled and structured sensory experiences, sensory integration therapy aims to help children with autism develop more effective sensory processing skills. Over time, the therapy can improve their ability to:

With children and their families, therapists take a holistic approach that prioritises functional, developmentally-appropriate methods. By taking into account sensory, motor (both gross and fine), social and cognitive components of performance, the therapist can create programs that fit into the family's daily routine and emphasise play as the child's main activity.

It is important to note that sensory integration therapy is just one approach among many interventions available for autistic children. The effectiveness of sensory integration therapy varies from individual to individual and it should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the unique needs of each child. Collaboration between parents, therapists, educators and other professionals is crucial in developing and implementing a holistic approach to support sensory integration in autistic children.