November 24, 2012

Overload…of the Sensory Kind…..

Posted in Autism, Sensory Differences at 6:33 PM by kellyvansingel


November 24, 2012

What is sensory overload?  Take a look at this short film…

This animation is entitled “Sensory Overload.” Part of the description reads, “Some people with autism have difficulty processing intense, multiple sensory experiences at once. This animation gives the viewer a glimpse into sensory overload, and how often our sensory experiences intertwine in everyday life.”

Created as part of the upcoming January 2013 ‘Interacting With Autism’ project, the animation was created by Jonathan Harris and Marsha Kinder demonstrating a multisensory experience of what it may be like to have our five senses over-amplified and under-amplified in a complicated mess.

Imagine if the everything is too bright, too dark, too loud, too soft, too hot, too cold all at the same time.  This is the reality of what experiences can sometimes be for those living with autism.  When you encounter someone having a meltdown, it may be due to sensory processing  difficulties and body responses that are beyond their control in that moment due to a challenged and misfiring neurological system.

Be compassionate and understanding to those who are responding differently than you in everyday situations.  Families and individuals living with autism thank you for your awareness.

~KVS

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11.