Parent Guide: Over-stimulation vs. Under-stimulation in Autistic Children
Understanding Over-stimulation and Under-stimulation in Autistic Children
As a parent of an Autistic child, it can be hard to understand how complex and unique their sensory and emotional experiences can be.
By understanding these experiences, we can truly transform their well-being and help you connect with them in a way that feels safe and supportive.
Your child’s sensory world - whether they're feeling over-stimulated or under-stimulated, plays a huge role in how they experience the world around them. By tuning into their needs, you can create a space where they feel heard, understood, and cared for.
We know this journey can be challenging, which is why we're here to offer practical, compassionate tips to help you navigate the sensory world your child lives in.
A Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) can be a great ally in this process. They carry out a Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA) to identify what triggers your child’s challenging behaviours.
By understanding these triggers, you’ll have a clearer sense of what’s going on and can implement strategies that support your child's specific needs, particularly around sensory sensitivities.
The crucial aspect is about understanding and recognising when they are over-stimulated or under-stimulated.
This enables parents to effectively manage challenging behaviours and emotions, paving the way for a calmer, more connected atmosphere.
And one final thought - this isn’t just about managing behaviours; it’s about honouring who your Autistic child is and giving them the space to grow and thrive.
What is Overstimulation?
Overstimulation occurs when a child is overwhelmed by sensory input, such as excessive directions, noise, lights, textures, or activity levels. This can make it hard for them to process their surroundings, often leading to internal conflicts, meltdowns and uncomfortable emotions.
Signs of Overstimulation
Covering ears, shielding eyes, or withdrawing from the environment.
Increased irritability, crying, or yelling.
Restlessness, pacing, or fleeing the area.
Self-soothing behaviours like rocking, humming, or repetitive motions.
Physical discomfort is expressed through gestures or words.
What is Under-stimulation?
Under-stimulation happens when a child does not receive enough sensory input to stay engaged or regulated. This can lead to boredom, frustration, or attention-seeking behaviours.
Signs of Under-stimulation
Wandering aimlessly or appearing disengaged.
Fidgeting excessively or seeking intense sensory experiences.
Making repetitive sounds or loud movements to create stimulation.
Difficulty focusing or completing tasks.
Expressing frustration or appearing unusually quiet and zoned out.
Under-stimulation and over-stimulation can sometimes appear similar in Autistic children because both states may lead to behaviours like restlessness, repetitive movements, or disengagement.
However, the underlying causes and subtle differences in their actions can help you distinguish between them.
How They Can Look Similar:
Repetitive Behaviours: Rocking, hand-flapping, or humming can occur in both states.
Disengagement: The child may seem withdrawn or unfocused, whether overwhelmed or bored.
Irritability: Both states may result in frustration or meltdowns.
Fidgeting: This can indicate an attempt to regulate sensory input, regardless of whether it’s too much or too little.
Key Differences between Over-stimulation and Under-stimulation
Overstimulation in Autistic Children:
Triggered by Excess Sensory Input:
Loud noises, bright lights, or chaotic environments often precede the behaviour.
The child may actively try to escape or block out sensory input (e.g., covering ears, avoiding eye contact).
Signs of Distress:
Increased anxiety or signs of being overwhelmed, like crying or yelling.
Self-soothing behaviours, such as curling up or seeking a quiet space.
Under-stimulation in Autistic Children:
Driven by Lack of Sensory Input:
Occurs in quieter, less stimulating environments or during inactivity.
The child may actively seek stimulation, such as banging objects, seeking movement, or making repetitive sounds.
Signs of Boredom:
The child may appear aimless, excessively fidgety, or initiate unusual sensory-seeking behaviours (e.g., spinning, jumping).
How to Tell the Difference between Over-stimulation and Under-stimulation
Observe the Environment:
Assess the sensory context. Are there overwhelming stimuli, or is the setting relatively calm and quiet?
2. Evaluate Behaviour Goals:
If the child seeks to escape the environment, they’re likely overstimulated.
If they seek more interaction or sensory input, they may be under-stimulated.
3. Experiment with Sensory Adjustments:
Reduce sensory input (lower noise, dim lights) to see if behaviours subside (over-stimulation).
Add sensory input (toys, movement) to observe if the child engages more (under-stimulation).
Being able to identify and recognise these distinctions is vital in helping parents tailor their responses to better support their child’s sensory needs.
Practical Steps to Assess Your Autistic Child’s Emotional State
1. Observe Behaviour Patterns
Your child's behaviour often provides clues about their sensory state. Pay close attention to changes in their actions or mood.
Watch for triggers: Notice what happens right before challenging behaviours. Are they exposed to loud noises, bright lights, or chaotic environments?
Record observations: Keep a journal to track patterns in behaviour. Note the time, location, and activity to identify recurring themes.
2. Use a Sensory Checklist
A sensory checklist can help you systematically assess your child’s sensory needs.
Evaluate sensitivity to different stimuli:
Auditory: Are loud sounds overwhelming?
Visual: Are bright lights or clutter stressful?
Tactile: Are certain fabrics or textures uncomfortable?
Proprioceptive: Does your child seek or avoid heavy lifting or pressure?
Vestibular: Do they seek spinning or swinging sensations?
Tailor your observations to these sensory domains to pinpoint whether your child might be overstimulated or under-stimulated in each area.
3. Engage in Open Communication
Encourage your child to express their feelings, using methods that work best for them.
For verbal children: Ask open-ended questions like, “Does this noise bother you?” or “Do you feel bored right now?”
For non-verbal children: Use visuals or communication devices to help them indicate how they feel. Options like emotion cards or simple yes/no choices can be effective.
Watch body language: Even if they can’t verbalise discomfort, gestures like pointing, avoiding eye contact, or repetitive motions can convey a lot.
4. Experiment with Sensory Input
To determine whether your child is over-stimulated or under-stimulated, try adjusting sensory input and observing their reactions.
If over-stimulated:
Lower noise levels or offer noise-cancelling headphones.
Dim the lights or provide sunglasses for bright environments.
Encourage retreat to a quiet space or sensory corner with calming tools.
If under-stimulated:
Offer stimulating activities, like playing with a sensory bin or a fidget toy.
Engage them in physical movement, such as jumping on a trampoline or using a swing.
Provide opportunities for tactile exploration, like kneading playdough or painting.
5. Create a Sensory Profile
Every child is unique in their sensory preferences. Developing a sensory profile helps you anticipate their needs and respond proactively.
Work with a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and an ABA Therapist to create a sensory plan tailored to your child.
Identify “safe” sensory activities or tools that help your child regulate their state.
Adjust daily routines to include breaks for sensory regulation, whether for calming down or boosting engagement.
Practical Strategies for Managing Sensory States
For Over-stimulation:
Provide a Break: Create a designated quiet area where your child can decompress.
Use Calming Tools: Weighted blankets, soft music, or breathing exercises can help soothe.
Practice Predictable Transitions: Warn your child about upcoming changes to reduce anxiety.
Limit Sensory Input: Reduce stimuli like background noise, crowded spaces, or bright lights.
For Under-stimulation:
Offer Sensory Activities: Provide engaging toys or tasks that match their sensory needs.
Encourage Movement: Activities like dancing, jumping, or crawling through tunnels can provide stimulation.
Incorporate Variety: Rotate sensory toys and activities to keep them engaging.
Use Interactive Play: Games that involve touch, sound, or motion can help re-engage your child.
Building Self-Awareness in Your Autistic Child Over Time
Involve Your Child:
Teach them to recognise their own sensory needs and how to self-regulate. Use tools like a “feelings chart” or sensory kit they can access independently. Ask them if they need ‘time in’- ‘time-in’ can be playing with their favourite loud toy.
Collaborate with Experts:
Work with occupational therapists, BCBA (guiding an ABA therapist), or educators to refine your understanding of your child’s sensory profile.
Adapt to Growth:
Sensory needs may evolve over time. Regularly reassess and adjust strategies to match your child’s current needs and preferences.
If you need support monitoring your child’s behaviour for signs of sensory overload or deprivation, our team of experienced BCBASs and ABA Therapists can help.
As compassionate Child Behaviour Specialists, we can help parents anticipate situations that may cause over-stimulation or under-stimulation and plan accordingly.
Once you fully understand your Autistic child's needs, your stress will significantly reduce and you can design a neuro-diverse friendly environment at home that addresses their comfort, physical needs, and inner well-being.
Contact us
We are based in South London, and provide ABA therapy at home in the London areas, as well as offering online ABA services to the rest of the UK.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.