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Updated: Mar 19, 2026

Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
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Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Published on: April 22, 2015

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Sensory Features of Toddlers at Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Kelsey Philpott-Robinson1, Alison E Lane2, Karen Harpster3

  • 1Kelsey Philpott-Robinson, BOccThy (Hons), is PhD (Occupational Therapy) Candidate, School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia; kelsey.philpott-robinson@uon.edu.au.

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy : Official Publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association
|June 14, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Sensory processing differences in toddlers at risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are linked to developmental delays. Addressing oral sensory issues may support early ASD sign identification and development.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Sensory Processing Research

Background:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficits and restricted, repetitive behaviors.
  • Sensory processing differences are frequently observed in individuals with ASD, but their role in early development requires further investigation.
  • Toddlers with risk factors for ASD present a critical window for understanding early developmental trajectories and associated sensory characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To observe sensory features in toddlers (12-24 months) with risk factors for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • To explore the relationship between observed sensory features and general development.
  • To investigate the association between sensory features and early signs of ASD.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 46 toddlers at higher risk for ASD participated in the study.
  • Standardized assessments were used to evaluate sensory features, early signs of ASD, and general development.
  • Data collection occurred during a single study visit for each participant.

Main Results:

  • Sensory features were categorized as adaptive or reactive.
  • Difficulties in oral sensory processing correlated with increased early signs of ASD.
  • Typical oral and auditory processing were linked to higher cognitive function.
  • Fewer overall sensory features were associated with more mature language skills.

Conclusions:

  • Specific sensory features in toddlers are associated with both early indicators of ASD and less mature overall development.
  • These findings suggest a potential link between sensory processing and developmental outcomes in at-risk toddlers.
  • Replication of this preliminary study is necessary to confirm these associations.
Abstract

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