June 23, 2026
Sensory Experiences
Accessing Language
This week I want to highlight a recommendation from one of my parents of an autistic child. The book is titled The Out-of-Sync Child. The Out-Of-Sync Child shares sensory differences in our visual, auditory, tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive sense systems, and how they impact behavior and communication.
My parent shared a story about her son who loves to spin (vestibular input). When he was spinning, it organized his nervous system and helped him access his language. Through the use of spinning in a chair (modeling his gestalt “spin it around” on his device), he was able to request a couple of items through his device, which then led him to use his voice to make a verbal request. The power of being integrated helped him access his communication.
One of my other little friends who craves tactile experiences was playing with pluffle (highlighted in the featured picture). It is an incredible sensory experience! I highly recommend pluffle, as it moves when you touch it. As we scooped, pushed, made it into a ball and even explored with his toes (!), he started to imitate “in.” This was the first time he imitated words in our therapy session. The more he worked the pluffle, the more integrated he became. He also said “four” when I counted the blocks in the bin. The best part happened as I was getting ready to leave when he said “Daddy.” Now that’s something every parent wants to hear!
When our sensory systems are in balance, we can access the best versions of ourselves and be the best communicators we can be. What sensory experience can you try this week? For additional ideas, check out Activities The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun. You won’t be disappointed!