Understanding sensory differences in neurodivergent children

Sensory processing Processing patterns Visual processing Sound Touch Taste and smell Body awareness Balance and movement Body signals Anxiety Supporting a child Strengths perspective

Many neurodivergent children – including autistic children, children with ADHD, dyspraxia, sensory processing differences and other neurodevelopmental conditions – experience the world differently through their senses.

Sensory processing differences can influence how a child experiences sounds, light, movement, touch, taste and their own bodily awareness. These experiences can affect behaviour, attention, emotional regulation and learning.

Understanding these differences can help parents and carers support children in ways that reduce stress and build confidence.

Research shows that sensory processing differences are common in neurodivergent children and are an important part of how they interact with the world.

Although some behavioural responses may be interpreted as ‘challenging’, most reactions are adaptive responses to sensory overload or sensory need.

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