What Does Occupational Therapy Do for Autism?
Occupational Therapists help autistic children develop skills for daily "occupations" — eating, dressing, playing, learning, socializing. For autism specifically, OT focuses heavily on sensory processing.
Most autistic people have differences in how their nervous system processes sensory information — they may be over-sensitive (hypersensitive) or under-sensitive (hyposensitive) to touch, sound, taste, smell, sight, movement (vestibular), and body position (proprioception).
Understanding Sensory Profiles
Sensory Seeker: Craves intense sensory input. Runs everywhere, crashes into things, mouths objects, seeks tight hugs. Their nervous system is under-aroused and seeks stimulation.
Sensory Avoider: Overwhelmed by input others barely notice. Covers ears at normal sounds, avoids certain textures, dislikes unexpected touch.
Mixed Profile: Most autistic children show a combination.
Sensory Diet Activities at Home
For Seekers: jumping on mattress, carrying heavy objects (proprioceptive input), climbing, deep pressure massage, chewy foods, bear hugs.
For Avoiders: noise-cancelling headphones, loose seamless clothing, warning before touch, quiet decompression space after school.
Finding OT in India
AYJNISHD centers offer free/subsidized OT. Private pediatric OT costs ₹600–2,500/session. Look for OTs with Sensory Integration certification. Many now offer home visits.
OT on Autism Saathi
The Sensory Diet tool gives you a customized activity plan based on your child's sensory profile — morning, midday, and evening activities.