Some children with autism experience hyposensitivity, meaning they have a reduced response to sensory input and may seek stronger stimulation to engage with their environment. This can affect their ability to process touch, movement, sound, or even pain, making it essential to consider their sensory preferences and aversions when providing activities that offer the right level of sensory input. Stimulating activities can help improve focus, coordination, and self-regulation, making children feel more connected and engaged.
How Hyposensitivity Affects Children with Autism
Hyposensitivity can vary in severity, with some children seeking more intense sensory experiences than others. It is important to note that each child is different, and activities that work well for one child may not be as effective for another. However, in general, hyposensitivity can lead to several challenges, such as:
Incorporating sensory-rich activities tailored to a child’s specific needs can strengthen their ability to process sensory input, improve focus, and enhance overall development.
12 Hyposensitive Activities for Autism
Engaging autistic children in sensory activities can enhance their sensory awareness and speed up overall development. The following activities are designed to provide stimulating sensory input for children with hyposensitivity.
Deep Pressure Activities
Applying firm but gentle pressure to the body can help children with hyposensitivity feel more grounded and increase their sensory awareness. Activities such as gentle massages, weighted blankets, and bear hugs offer calming and regulating sensory input, helping children feel more connected to their bodies.
Chewing and Biting Activities
Many children with autism seek oral sensory input through chewing or biting behaviors. Providing safe alternatives such as chewable toys and crunchy foods like carrots or apples can help fulfill this need while preventing harmful habits like chewing on clothing or fingers.
Heavy Work Tasks
Heavy work activities engage large muscle groups, providing deep-pressure input that helps children feel more connected to their environment. Tasks like pushing a stroller, pulling a wagon, carrying heavy objects, or jumping on a trampoline can improve focus, coordination, and sensory processing.
Water Play
Water provides tactile and proprioceptive input, making it an excellent sensory experience for children with hyposensitivity. Activities like playing with a sensory water table, taking a bath with sensory-friendly toys, or running through sprinklers can offer engaging and soothing sensory stimulation.
Swinging and Rocking
Rhythmic movement through swinging and rocking supports vestibular input, helping children regulate their sensory systems. Using a traditional swing, a hammock, or a rocking chair can provide calming effects while improving balance and coordination.
Vibration Therapy
Vibration can be both stimulating and calming for children with hyposensitivity, providing valuable tactile and proprioceptive input. Vibrating massage tools, handheld vibrating devices, and vibration mats can help regulate sensory processing and improve focus.
Sensory Bins
Tactile exploration through sensory bins encourages children to engage with different textures, improving their sensory processing. Filling sensory bins with materials like rice, beans, sand, gel, or slime can create an enjoyable and stimulating activity that enhances tactile awareness.
Therapeutic Brushes
Using therapeutic brushes offers gentle tactile stimulation, which can help regulate sensory input. Techniques such as the Wilbarger Protocol or self-brushing with a soft brush can provide calming effects and improve sensory processing.
Bouncing on a Ball
Bouncing activities engage both the proprioceptive and vestibular systems, making them ideal for children who seek movement-based sensory input. Therapy balls, soft mats for bouncing, and other controlled jumping activities can help improve coordination and focus.
Textured Materials Exploration
Introducing different textures helps hyposensitive children become more aware of their surroundings. Exploring textured fabrics like velvet, corduroy, or silk, as well as natural objects such as leaves, bark, or rocks, can enhance tactile engagement and sensory processing.
Dance and Movement
Movement-based activities provide essential sensory input while promoting coordination and body awareness. Free dancing, yoga, and stretching exercises help children regulate their sensory needs while improving flexibility and attention.
Animal Mimicry
Imitating animal movements can be a fun way to engage both the proprioceptive and vestibular systems. Activities such as bear crawls, frog jumps, or lion’s breath exercises encourage full-body movement while enhancing sensory awareness and motor skills.
Hyposensitivity in children with autism can make it challenging for them to fully engage with their surroundings and process sensory input effectively. Offering stimulating, sensory-rich activities helps children develop better sensory awareness and regulation. Incorporating these 12 hyposensitive activities into daily routines can promote focus, coordination, and emotional balance.
Seek Help Professionally
Children with autism who experience hyposensitivity often require specialized support to navigate sensory challenges effectively. While at-home strategies can be helpful, professionals offer expert guidance tailored to each child’s unique needs.
- Personalized Intervention: Occupational therapists and ABA specialists assess sensory processing difficulties and develop customized strategies to enhance sensory awareness and regulation. This individualized approach helps target specific challenges and promote meaningful progress.
- Expert Techniques: Professionals use evidence-based methods, such as sensory integration therapy and structured activities, to help children engage more effectively with their environment. These techniques are backed by research and tailored to each child’s unique sensory needs.
- Ongoing Support: Seeking professional help ensures continuous monitoring and adjustments to interventions, promoting long-term progress and improved daily functioning. Regular assessments help refine strategies and ensure lasting success.
At Strides ABA, we provide high-quality ABA therapy NJ and New York to support children in their sensory and developmental needs. Contact us today to learn how our expert team can help your child thrive!
Sources: