Sounds are a part of our everyday life, so when dealing with an autistic child with sensory problems, sounds are one of the first things you should learn to control, especially in a learning environment. Sound can both be hurtful and helpful for an autistic child. Because each autistic individual is different, you must closely observe him or her to find out what types of reactions to expect during any kind of auditory sensory stimulation.

Loud or frightening sounds may be the most difficult type of sensory stimulation in an autistic child’s life. Many of our routine daily activities include such sounds, and a child’s defensive responses may interfere with the learning process. Children, and especially children with Autism, can not and will not learn if they are frightened. For example, parents often find that they have a difficult time toilet training their autistic children. This could be due to the frightening sound of the toilet flushing; which may seem overpowering to an autistic child. If you are faced with this challenge, try using a child’s “potty seat” away from the actual toilet until your child is used to the potty. Then you can try to ease the transition to the regular toilet.

Another thing that might cause a problem is loud or crunchy food. If your autistic child is a picky eater, try to take notice specifically of which foods he or she blatantly refuses to eat. Sometimes, certain foods simply sound too loud when crunching in an autistic child’s mouth. Such noises may hurt the autistic child’s ears or frighten them. If this is the case with your child, provide alternative soft foods rather than crunchy carrots, apples, or potato chips. Such reactions often lessen as the child matures.

Other loud sounds, such as vacuum cleaners or large vehicles may also seem very loud and frightening to children, especially to someone with a sensory disorder. Try to do these activities when he or she is not in the room, or consider providing your child with earplugs or noise-canceling headphones that he or she can use if the world gets too loud.

Sounds can also cause fixations. Some children, for example, constantly hum and seem fixated on the sights and sounds of household machines, lawnmowers or vehicles. Use such fixations to help your child learn. For example, read books about noisy machines or use the humming in conjunction with a song. Music is a great way in which autistic individuals can learn because sound is a form of nonverbal communication. Teachers and parents should use this tool in learning environments. The key is to make sound work for you and your child. By being sensitive to your child’s specific needs, you can help him or her learn to cope with the sounds of everyday life.