Occupational Therapy for Children on the Autism Spectrum

 

Children on the autism spectrum often experience differences in how they process sensory information. This can include sensitivities or challenges related to sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, body awareness (proprioception), balance and movement (vestibular system), and internal body signals (interoception). When sensory input feels overwhelming or difficult to interpret, everyday activities can become challenging.

​

Tasks that may seem simple—such as getting dressed, brushing teeth, or playing with peers—can feel stressful or unmanageable for a child with sensory processing differences. These challenges can impact a child’s ability to participate in daily routines, build friendships, and engage successfully at school and home.

​

Our occupational therapists use a sensory-integration-based, child-centered approach to help children better understand and regulate their bodies. Through individualized strategies and age-appropriate interventions, we work closely with both the child and family to build regulation, confidence, and functional skills that support independence and success in daily life.

​

How Occupational Therapy Supports Children with Autism

 

Occupational Therapy May Address:

• Understanding personal space, boundaries, and body awareness

• Social play, peer interaction, and participation skills

• Developing a “safe body” and safety awareness

• Daily living skills such as dressing, bathing, brushing teeth, and grooming

• Creating visual schedules and routines to support transitions and expectations

• Building a personalized sensory toolbox to support regulation (which may include tools such as weighted blankets, pressure vests, noise-canceling headphones, and movement strategies)

• Self-feeding skills and expanding food variety for picky eaters

• Emotional regulation skills, including identifying emotions and calming strategies

• Interoceptive awareness—recognizing body signals and choosing appropriate sensory strategies

• Executive functioning skills such as organization, sequencing, attention, and working memory

• Use of adaptive supports including visual timers, visual cues, and assistive or virtual reminder technology

• Pre-academic and fine motor skills such as handwriting, coloring, drawing, and scissor use

• Use of adaptive tools such as pencil grippers, adaptive paper, loop scissors, and pencil weights

 

Our Approach​

We begin with a comprehensive evaluation to identify each child’s unique strengths, needs, and sensory profile. As a sensory-based clinic, we take a holistic approach to therapy—focusing not only on skill development, but also on building self-esteem, confidence, and social participation.

​

Children typically attend occupational therapy 1–2 times per week for 60-minute sessions. We strongly value the role of parents and caregivers and prioritize collaboration, education, and carryover into daily routines. Our goal is to partner with families to help every child reach their highest level of independence and success.