Joint

Autism and Sensory Processing

About this course

Autism and Sensory Processing
Sensory processing refers to the ability of a student to register, interpret and respond to sensory information. This is a complex process involving all the sensory systems (auditory, gustatory, visual, olfactory, tactile, proprioceptive, vestibular and interoception). When sensory processing is working well, a young person can engage in daily functional activities and social interaction. Sensory processing differences are prevalent in autistic young people and can affect every aspect of life and development.
This session examines the sensory processing differences and will demonstrate how such differences impact on learning, leisure activities and choices, social interactions, and behaviour in school. 
Participants will: 
•    Develop a basic understanding of some of the sensory processing differences. 
•    Understand how sensory processing differences can affect the young person’s experience in school. 
•    Gain knowledge of strategies, which will assist in meeting the young person’s sensory needs. 

Notes

View course notes (PDF) (opens in new window)

About the trainer

Eleanor McStay

Eleanor McStay

Eleanor McStay-Fearon is a Trainer/Advisor and Specialist Speech and Language Therapist at Middletown Centre for Autism. Eleanor has worked as part of the Learning Support and Assessment Service for many years, working directly with autistic children across school and home.

Eleanor holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Sensory Integration and is an Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner.

She has worked closely with parents, teachers and health professionals to support the implementation of communication, sensory and emotional regulation supports across home and school environments.