For Parents

Autism and Sensory Processing

About this course

Sensory Processing generally refers to the ability of an individual to register sensory information, make sense of that information, and to respond to it. This is a complex and fluid process involving all the sensory systems, auditory, gustatory, visual, olfactory, tactile, proprioceptive, and vestibular. When sensory processing is working well, an individual’s responses to sensory information are positive and support interaction. However, sensory processing difficulties are quite prevalent in the profiles of children with autism and can affect every aspect of life and development.
This session examines the sensory processing differences frequently associated with autism and will demonstrate how such difficulties impact on learning, leisure activities and choices, social interactions and behaviour at home and in school.
Expected Outcomes:
Parents and family members will
• Develop a basic understanding of some of the sensory processing differences in autism.
• Understand how sensory processing differences can affect their child’s experience in school and at home.
• Gain knowledge of strategies, which will assist in meeting their child’s sensory needs.

Notes

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Location

National University of Galway, Room LCI-G018 University Road , Galway , Galway

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About the trainer

Aíne Henry

Aine Henry is a senior occupational therapist who has studied with the Sensory Integration Network UK & Ireland to become an advanced practitioner in Ayres Sensory Integration. She completed her MSc in Sensory Integration with Ulster University in 2016. Aine is a member of the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland, and works in Dublin with adults and children with both an Intellectual Disability and Autism. Aine’s area of special interest is in utilising sensory processing knowledge to collaborate with parents and teachers to achieve activity participation goals. Aine has carried out research related to this topic which she hopes to publish.