Key Points:
- SPD and autism share sensory processing challenges, but SPD can occur independently, while autism includes broader social-communication and behavioral criteria.
- Children with autism often show patterns of sensory-seeking or avoidance tied to broader developmental traits like social interaction and repetitive behaviors.
- Accurate identification leads to effective strategies—like sensory diets, environmental adaptations, and ABA therapy—that reflect each child’s unique profile.
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and autism share many overlapping traits, especially when it comes to sensory sensitivity, but they are not the same diagnosis. While nearly 90% of autistic individuals experience sensory challenges, SPD can also occur in children who have no social or communication delays.
Recognizing these differences is essential for tailoring the right supports and interventions. SPD involves difficulty interpreting and responding to sensory input, such as sound, texture, or movement. Autism includes sensory challenges as well, but it’s defined by broader developmental differences—like communication styles, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors.
In this article, we’ll explore how SPD and autism intersect, how to distinguish between them, and what strategies can support your child’s unique sensory and developmental needs.
What is the Difference Between SPD and Autism?
SPD and autism overlap in sensory symptoms but differ in social communication, behavior patterns, and diagnostic criteria. In practice, SPD can exist on its own, while autism is defined by social, communication, and behavioral domains, with sensory features as a possible diagnostic marker.
SPD is typically diagnosed through occupational therapy via sensory profile assessments. In contrast, autism diagnosis requires a comprehensive developmental evaluation, including language use and social reciprocity. It’s possible for children to have both SPD and autism—or only one of the two.
How Do SPD Symptoms Differ From Sensory Issues in Autism?
SPD symptoms involve sensory challenges alone, such as sensitivity to textures or sounds, without affecting communication or social interaction. In contrast, sensory issues in autism are often paired with language delays, social difficulties, and repetitive behaviors.
While both conditions may include sensory-seeking or avoiding behaviors, autism involves a broader developmental profile. Accurate diagnosis is key to selecting the right interventions, like sensory integration for SPD or combined sensory and behavioral support for autism.
How Are Sensory Issues Identified in SPD vs. Autism?
Assessment methods differ depending on whether a child’s sensory issues are part of autism or a standalone SPD diagnosis. Below are some common tools used to distinguish the two conditions:
1. Sensory Profile 2
Caregiver questionnaires that measure how often and how strongly a child reacts to various sensory experiences.
2. Clinical Observation
Occupational therapists use structured sensory tasks to observe real-time reactions to touch, sound, and movement input.
3. Developmental Evaluation
Autism assessments include language, play, and behavior testing to identify patterns beyond sensory responses.
4. Parent and Teacher Reports
Daily insights from adults help clarify when, where, and how sensory challenges affect a child’s routines and interactions.
Accurate diagnosis guides intervention: sensory-only pathways trigger OT-led sensory diets, while autism includes multi-disciplinary supports.
Can Sensory Needs in Autism Be Managed Like SPD?
Yes, sensory needs in autism can often be managed using similar strategies as SPD, such as sensory diets, environmental modifications, and calming tools. The key difference lies in how these supports are integrated.
In autism, sensory strategies are typically combined with behavioral, communication, and social goals. For example, a weighted vest might help with focus during learning, while movement breaks support emotional regulation. A holistic, personalized approach ensures sensory tools meet the broader developmental needs of the child.
What Strategies Work for Both SPD and Autism?
Structured strategies can support sensory processing across both conditions. These should be customized based on individual profiles, development, and sensory thresholds. Below are some effective strategies for both SPD and autism:
- Sensory Diets: Scheduled sensory activities like jumping, deep pressure, or tactile play to regulate throughout the day.
- Environmental Modifications: Adapting classrooms and home spaces for lighting, sound levels, texture options.
- Equipment and Tools: Use of fidget toys, chewables, weighted blankets, or adaptive seating.
- Visual Supports: Visual schedules, timers, and cue cards to reduce anxiety around sensory demands.
When sensory strategies are combined with behavior and communication goals, children gain more consistent progress.
Why Collaboration Between OT and ABA Matters?
Collaboration between Occupational Therapy (OT) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) ensures that sensory and behavioral needs are addressed together, creating more effective and consistent support for children.
OT focuses on sensory integration and motor skills, while ABA targets communication, behavior, and daily routines. When therapists share goals and strategies, children benefit from unified interventions that support regulation, learning, and independence across all environments.
How Can Families Support Sensory Differences Every Day?
Families can support sensory differences daily by creating predictable routines, offering sensory-friendly spaces, and using calming tools tailored to their child’s needs. Tracking triggers and responses also helps guide consistent, personalized strategies.
Encouraging communication about sensory preferences—through visuals, words, or gestures—builds self-awareness and promotes independence. Small changes, like soft clothing or scheduled movement breaks, can make a big difference in comfort, confidence, and daily participation.
When Should You Seek Evaluation?
You should seek evaluation when sensory reactions begin disrupting daily routines, learning, or social interactions. Signs include meltdowns, avoidance, aggression, or shutdowns in response to touch, sound, or movement.
An evaluation can determine whether symptoms point to Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), autism, or both. Early intervention by occupational therapists and developmental specialists helps ensure your child receives targeted, effective support as soon as possible.
Promote Positive Change With ABA Therapy
At Storybook ABA, we offer integrated ABA therapy in Virginia and Maryland, designed for children with sensory processing differences—both those with SPD alone and those with autism.
Our team works collaboratively with occupational therapists to build sensory-informed goals into behavioral plans. We help children learn self-regulation, communication, and daily living skills in ways that respect their sensory needs.
Reach out to us to explore how ABA therapy in Maryland or Virginia can support your child’s sensory and developmental journey.
