
Understanding Sensory Differences in Autism
From The Autism Mums Podcast by Victoria Bennion and Natalie Tealdi
May 12, 2026 · 33 min · Episode 60
About this episode
This episode explores sensory differences in autism, discussing their impact and providing practical strategies for support.
Sensory differences affect up to 95% of autistic people, yet they’re often misunderstood as “fussy” behaviour or being dramatic. In this episode, we break down what sensory processing really is. Key Takeaways The 8 sensory systems (not just the 5 you learned at school) Hypersensitivity vs hyposensitivity Sensory defensiveness Why supermarkets, lunch halls, hand dryers and clothing can feel unbearable How sensory overload impacts eating, sleep, learning and behaviour Practical strategies for calming, alerting and organising regulation We also share personal examples from our own families and discuss how to support sensory needs at home and in school, with curiosity, compassion and less shame. Because behaviour is communication and regulation matters more than compliance. Mentioned in This Episode The National Autistic Society Beat Eating Disorders Loop earplugs Connect with The Autism Mums Website – https://theautismmums.com/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums
People in this episode
Hosts: Victoria Bennion, Natalie Tealdi
Topics covered
- sensory processing
- autism
- hypersensitivity
- hyposensitivity
- sensory overload
- regulation strategies
Keywords
- sensory differences
- autistic people
- sensory systems
- sensory defensiveness
- calming strategies
- communication
- regulation
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: The National Autistic Society, Beat Eating Disorders, Loop earplugs
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