We combine our senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste, balance and the sense of our body in space) in order to make sense of our environment. Processing everyday sensory information can be difficult for autistic people. Any of their senses may be over- or under-sensitive, or both, at different times. These sensory differences can affect how they feel and act, and can have a profound effect on a person’s life. Autistic people may seek additional sensory input to make them feel better (movement/ proprioceptive input) or they may retreat from sensory input if it makes them feel overwhelmed (e.g. very loud noises).
Sensory profile
A sensory profile helps you understand the young persons sensory processing patterns in various settings. Gathering this information is important in order to provide the child or young person with the right intervention that helps them navigate different situations such as; providing them with an early pass to avoid busy corridors, or offering alternative spaces during lunch to limit their exposure to loud noises or areas with strong smells.
