Sensory stimuli
Hello everyone. I pray that all is well with you all. Today’s topic will serve as an educational blog about sensory stimuli. I am sure most of us autism parents and caregivers are well aware of sensory stimuli as it relates to our children, but I am hoping you learn something new from my experiences, especially those in the early stages of the journey. In addition to deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restrictive and repetitive behaviors, the American Psychiatric Association diagnosis of ASD also include hyper (over-responsiveness) and/or hypo (under-responsiveness) sensitivity to sensory input.
All humans respond to sensory input of sounds, sight, smell, touch, taste, balance and body awareness (proprioception). Autisic children can either over respond to those stimuli or under respond to them. In Jayson’s case his sensory stimuli involves body awareness or proprioception. Proprioception is our bodies awareness system that tells our bodies where they are in relation to objects. Our proprioceptive system also helps in controlling responses to sensory stimuli. Symptoms of a child needing proprioceptive stimuli include but are not limited to throwing themselves on the floor, running, jumping, stumping heavily while walking, holding objects with excessive pressure, rough playing and a whole multitude of other symptoms that help facilitate their pressure needs.
Proprioceptive autism
Jayson’s method of seeking proprioceptive input is jumping off anything he could find. He is happiest when he is jumping off 
the couch. To help accommodate his sensory needs, he jumps on an indoor and outdoor trampoline, he sleeps with a weighted blanket, he uses a weighted vest at school, loves water – whether a pool or in a tub, he likes rice/bean bowls, playdough, pop tubes and we incorporate physical activity into his day as much as possible. Below are strategies from Autism Speaks to help your kiddos deal with sensory sensitivities.
Examples of accommodations for hyper-sensitivities
● Dimmed lights
● Incandescent versus fluorescent lighting
● Sunglasses or visor to block overhead fluorescent lighting
● Ear plugs or headphones in noisy environments
● Closed door or high-walled work areas to block distracting sights and sounds
● Avoidance of strongly scented products (perfumes, air fresheners, soaps, etc.)
● Food options that avoid personal aversions (e.g. intensely spicy, textured, cold, hot, etc.)
● Clothing that accommodates personal sensitivities (e.g. to tight waistbands and/or
scratchy fabric, seams and tags)
● Request for permission before touching
Examples of accommodations for hypo-sensitivities
● Visual supports for those who have difficulty processing spoken information
● Sensory-stimulating toys (e.g. safe chewies and fidgets)
● Opportunities for rocking, swinging and other sensory stimulating activities
● Strong tasting and/or textured foods, cold beverages, etc.
● Firm touch (according to preference)
● Weighted blankets
● Fun opportunities to practice physical skills (catching, dancing, jumping, running, etc.)
● Furniture arrangements that reduce chances of bumping into sharp or hard surfaces
I pray this information is helpful to you. Please comment below on what strategies you have incorporated in your day-to-day dealings as it relates to sensory needs for your kiddos..
Love you all
God bless,
M.J.