Hey friends! In this episode of Teaching Autism and Special Education, we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood (but hugely important) parts of student behavior: sensory processing.

From toe-walking to meltdowns to zoning out, so many behaviors in our classrooms are not “bad behavior.” They’re sensory systems saying, “I’m overwhelmed and I need support.”

Together, we’re unpacking:

What sensory processing actually is

The 8 sensory systems (yes, there are 8!)

What happens when those systems are out of sync

Easy, realistic ways to support sensory needs in your classroom

Why sensory differences are not about behavior, they’re about survival

The role of the lesser-known sensory systems (vestibular, proprioception, and interoception)

Common signs of over- and under-responsiveness across all systems

Why sensory input should be proactive, not just reactive

How to normalize and support sensory needs for every student

Visual (Sight) – Lights, movement, visual clutter

Auditory (Sound) – Background noise, voices, sudden sounds

Tactile (Touch) – Textures, clothing, materials

Olfactory (Smell) – Scents, perfumes, food smells

Gustatory (Taste) – Oral input, picky eating, chewing

Vestibular (Balance & Movement) – Motion, head position, spinning

Proprioception (Body Awareness) – Pressure, body position, movement

Interoception (Internal Signals) – Hunger, thirst, emotions, toilet needs

Tomchek & Dunn (2007): 95% of autistic students experience sensory processing differences

Schaaf et al. (2014): Understanding sensory patterns improves support, learning, and regulation

Observe and Track Patterns
 ➡️ Notice when students become dysregulated and what’s happening around them.

Stock Your Room with Tools
 ➡️ Fidgets, noise-canceling headphones, sensory bins, calm lighting, chewies, wiggle seats, let them choose what works.

Build Sensory Input Into the Day
 ➡️ Movement breaks, sensory stations, deep pressure, calm-down time—it’s not “extra,” it’s essential.

Talk About Sensory Needs Openly
 ➡️ Use visuals and stories to teach students how to understand and express their needs.

Include Sensory Supports in IEPs
 ➡️ These are not “rewards” or “nice-to-haves.” They’re vital learning supports. Put them in writing.

Was this episode a sensory “aha” moment for you?
Come say hi over on Instagram and tag me in your favorite takeaway.
Or explore my sensory visuals, blog posts and freebies.

Supporting sensory needs isn’t about “giving in.”
It’s about removing barriers to learning, regulation, and connection.
When we meet sensory needs, we don’t just see fewer meltdowns, we build more trust.

And that? That changes everything.

🎧 Hit play now and start seeing your students’ behaviors through a sensory lens.
And don’t forget to share this one with your SPED team, it’s a must-listen.