Interoception – understanding body signals
Interoception refers to the ability to sense internal body signals such as:
- hunger
- thirst
- temperature
- pain
- needing the toilet
- emotional signals
Some neurodivergent children have difficulty recognising these signals.
This can affect:
- emotional regulation
- self-care
- recognising anxiety or stress
Parents can support children by helping children label body sensations and emotions, and establishing routines so that children begin to associate certain internal sensations (such as hunger or needing the toilet) with the appropriate response.
