If you’re raising a child on the autism spectrum, you’ve likely noticed certain patterns in how they interact with the world. Some children may cover their ears at the sound of a vacuum, while others can’t resist touching everything in sight. These reactions are often tied to sensory processing differences—a common but varied experience for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Not every child with autism struggles with sensory input, but for many, the way sights, sounds, tastes, and textures are processed feels either too much or not enough. This is where the idea of sensory avoidance and sensory seeking comes in.

How Sensory Processing Works

Our brains are constantly collecting information from the world around us through the senses. Most people filter and organize this information without thinking. But for children with sensory challenges, the brain doesn’t always sort these signals smoothly, which can lead to being hypersensitive (avoiding input) or hyposensitive (seeking input).

Sensory Avoidance (Hypersensitivity)

Some children feel overwhelmed by everyday sights and sounds. This can lead to avoiding certain environments or objects. Common signs include:

• Covering ears during loud noises
• Resisting crowded spaces
• Avoiding certain fabrics or food textures
• Pulling away from hugs or physical touch
• Squinting or shutting eyes around bright lights

Sensory Seeking (Hyposensitivity)

Other children may crave stimulation because their brains don’t register sensory input strongly. They look for extra input to feel balanced. Signs of sensory seeking include:

• Touching people or objects frequently
• Standing unusually close to others
• Making or enjoying loud noises
• Rocking, spinning, or repetitive movements (like hand flapping or toe walking)
• Chewing on items like clothing or pencils

It’s also possible for a child to experience both patterns—avoiding certain sensations in one setting, while seeking others in another. For instance, your child may seem calm at home but overwhelmed in a crowded store, leading to stimming or extra movement as a way to self-regulate.

Supporting Children with Sensory Needs

The first step is observation. Notice what triggers your child’s responses—whether it’s a noisy cafeteria, itchy clothing, or a need for movement after sitting too long. Once you’ve identified patterns, you can prepare tools and strategies to help them feel comfortable.

Here are some approaches parents and caregivers often find useful:

• Adjust the environment → Try dimming lights, adding sunglasses, or offering noise-canceling headphones in overwhelming situations.
• Offer safe sensory outlets → Encourage rocking, swinging, jumping, or fidget toys when your child needs stimulation.
• Build sensory-friendly routines → Plan breaks during schoolwork or outings to let your child reset.
• Use nutrition and exercise → For some children, sensory exercises and dietary support can make regulation easier.
• Talk about it → Have conversations about sensory needs during calm moments, so your child feels understood and can learn to communicate their needs.

Every Child is Unique

Sensory behaviors—whether avoiding or seeking—are not “bad” behaviors. They are ways your child’s brain is working to find balance. What calms one child may energize another, and what feels overwhelming in one setting may feel fine in another.

By learning to recognize your child’s sensory preferences, you’re not just managing behaviors—you’re helping them navigate the world with confidence. And that understanding is one of the most powerful supports a parent can offer.