Sensory issues—such as discomfort from loud noises, aversion to certain textures, or difficulty sitting still—are common in both autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But how can parents, caregivers, and educators tell the difference between sensory processing difficulties linked to autism versus those associated with ADHD?

While these two conditions can overlap in many ways, understanding their distinctions is essential to providing the right kind of support. In this blog, we’ll explore what sensory processing issues are, how they show up in both autism and ADHD, what strategies are effective to help children cope, regardless of their diagnosis, and when to seek professional help.

What Are Sensory Issues?

Sensory issues occur when the brain has difficulty receiving and responding appropriately to sensory input. This input can come from any of the senses:

  • Sight
  • Sound
  • Smell
  • Taste
  • Touch
  • Movement (vestibular)
  • Body awareness (proprioception)

Children with sensory issues may be overly sensitive (hypersensitive) or under-responsive (hyposensitive) to stimuli. For example, a child may cover their ears at the sound of a vacuum (hypersensitive) or constantly seek movement by spinning or jumping (hyposensitive).

These challenges are often grouped under Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)—though it’s not an official medical diagnosis in itself, it is a recognized set of symptoms often seen in children with autism or ADHD.

Sensory Processing in Autism

Sensory differences are a core feature of autism. According to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, individuals with ASD must display hyper- or hypo-reactivity to sensory input or unusual interests in sensory aspects of the environment.

Common sensory behaviors in autism:

  • Covering ears in response to everyday sounds
  • Avoiding certain food textures
  • Refusing to wear specific types of clothing
  • Fascination with lights, spinning objects, or repetitive sounds
  • Walking on toes to avoid certain floor textures

Why it happens: The sensory processing system in autistic individuals often functions differently, causing everyday stimuli to feel overwhelming or insufficient. These experiences can impact emotional regulation, behavior, and learning.

Sensory Processing in ADHD

Though not a diagnostic criterion for ADHD, sensory issues are still common in children with the condition. The overlap between ADHD and sensory difficulties is well-documented in research.

Common sensory behaviors in ADHD:

  • Fidgeting with objects or tapping
  • Being easily distracted by noises or visual stimuli
  • Difficulty sitting still or staying focused
  • Seeking constant movement (rocking, bouncing, etc.)
  • Irritability or emotional outbursts triggered by sensory overload

Why it happens: In ADHD, sensory challenges often stem from difficulties with self-regulation, attention, and impulsivity rather than from a core difference in sensory perception. This means that while children with ADHD may react strongly to sensory input, it’s typically because they struggle to filter out distractions or regulate their responses.

Autism vs. ADHD: Key Differences in Sensory Processing

While both autism and ADHD can involve sensory challenges, the underlying causes, severity, and patterns often differ. Here’s a comparison to help clarify:

Aspect Autism ADHD
Sensory Response Intense, consistent sensory aversions or fixations Sensory issues tend to fluctuate; more tied to attention/regulation
Cause Neurological differences in sensory integration Impulsivity and difficulty filtering stimuli
Reaction to Overstimulation Shutdowns, meltdowns, repetitive behaviors Fidgeting, restlessness, distractibility
Sensory-Seeking Behaviors Purposeful (e.g., flapping, spinning) Often random or tied to hyperactivity
Focus on Sensory Input Fascination or obsession with sensory details Easily distracted by sensory information

Yes. Many children are diagnosed with both autism and ADHD. Studies suggest that 30-80% of children with autism also meet the criteria for ADHD. When both conditions are present, sensory challenges may be more intense and complex.

In these cases, a comprehensive assessment by a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or neurologist can help distinguish overlapping symptoms and determine the best course of support.

Identifying Sensory Issues: What to Look For

Whether your child has autism, ADHD, or neither, here are signs that sensory processing issues may be present:

  • Avoids or seeks out specific textures, sounds, or movements
  • Has extreme responses to loud noises or bright lights
  • Refuses certain clothing or insists on wearing the same thing daily
  • Becomes overwhelmed in busy environments (stores, classrooms)
  • Seeks sensory input by jumping, spinning, or roughhousing
  • Experiences frequent meltdowns or shutdowns related to sensory input

If these signs are consistent and interfere with daily life, it’s time to seek professional evaluation.

Sensory Processing Evaluation

An occupational therapist (OT) trained in sensory integration can evaluate a child’s sensory profile through formal assessments, observation, and interviews.

The OT can help determine:

  • Whether the child is hypersensitive, hyposensitive, or both
  • Which sensory systems are affected
  • How sensory needs impact behavior, learning, and socialization
  • Strategies to support sensory regulation across environments

Strategies to Support Children with Sensory Issues

Whether the sensory issues stem from autism, ADHD, or both, the following strategies can help:

1. Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment

  • Reduce clutter and noise
  • Use calming lighting (avoid fluorescent bulbs)
  • Provide noise-canceling headphones
  • Offer a quiet space for breaks

2. Use Sensory Tools

  • Fidget toys or stress balls for focus
  • Weighted blankets or lap pads for calming
  • Chewable necklaces or oral motor tools
  • Textured materials or sensory bins

3. Build in Sensory Breaks

  • Movement breaks throughout the day
  • Swinging, jumping, or bouncing activities
  • Scheduled times for sensory play

4. Respect Sensory Boundaries

  • Avoid forcing sensory input that the child resists
  • Offer choices when introducing new foods, clothes, or activities
  • Use visual schedules and warnings for transitions

5. Teach Coping Skills

  • Deep breathing and mindfulness for regulation
  • Social stories to explain sensory experiences
  • Role-play scenarios to practice responses

Supporting at Home and School

Parents, teachers, and therapists play a key role in helping children manage sensory difficulties. Open communication and consistency across settings can make a big difference.

At Home:

  • Use a sensory diet created by an OT
  • Observe and document sensory triggers
  • Create routines that incorporate calming or stimulating activities

At School:

  • Work with the IEP team to address sensory needs
  • Request sensory accommodations (quiet area, movement breaks)
  • Allow the use of sensory tools in the classroom

When to Seek Professional Help

If sensory issues are causing significant distress, interfering with learning, or leading to emotional or behavioral problems, it’s important to seek professional support.

You may want to consult:

  • A developmental pediatrician
  • A child psychologist or psychiatrist
  • An occupational therapist
  • A BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst)

Early identification and intervention can lead to better outcomes and a more supportive environment for your child.

Final Thoughts

So, are sensory issues autism or ADHD? The answer isn’t always clear-cut. While sensory processing difficulties are more formally recognized in autism, they’re also present in many children with ADHD. Understanding the context, patterns, and root causes of sensory behaviors is key to effective support.

Whether your child is autistic, has ADHD, or exhibits sensory challenges without a diagnosis, what matters most is providing compassionate, individualized care. Recognizing and validating sensory experiences is the first step toward helping your child thrive.

If you’re looking for expert support in managing your child’s sensory needs, Move Up ABA provides customized ABA therapy services designed to meet your child’s unique behavioral and sensory profile. Our trained professionals use evidence-based strategies to promote growth, self-regulation, and success at home, school, and beyond. Contact us today to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a child have sensory issues without autism or ADHD?

Yes. Some children may have sensory processing challenges without meeting the criteria for autism or ADHD. In such cases, occupational therapy can still provide valuable support.

2. How can I tell if my child’s sensory behaviors are due to ADHD or autism?

A comprehensive evaluation by professionals such as psychologists, developmental pediatricians, and occupational therapists is the best way to determine the cause. They can assess behavioral patterns, social development, and sensory responses.

3. Are there treatments specifically for sensory issues?

Yes. Occupational therapy with a sensory integration approach is the most common intervention. ABA therapy, speech therapy, and parent training may also help when sensory challenges are part of a larger developmental condition.

Sources:

  1. https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/sensory-differences/sensory-differences
  2. https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-processing-disorder
  3. https://www.autistica.org.uk/what-is-autism/anxiety-and-autism-hub/sensory-differences
  4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5478272/
  5. https://childmind.org/article/treating-sensory-processing-issues/