Do Sensory Processing Differences Make School Assemblies Hard in Autism?

PostedDecember 16, 2025

UpdatedDecember 16, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Assemblies and sensory differences in autism are often closely linked, as sensory sensitivities can make large gatherings like school assemblies overwhelming for autistic students. Sensory processing challenges, such as heightened noise sensitivity or visual overload, can create significant discomfort during events that involve crowds, loud sounds, and bright lights.

For many autistic individuals, the combination of sensory overload and the social pressure of participating in a large group can make school assemblies especially difficult. These sensory challenges can cause anxiety, meltdowns, or withdrawal from the event, highlighting the importance of understanding how sensory differences in autism affect participation in such settings.

How Sensory Differences Affect School Assemblies

Here’s how assemblies and sensory differences in autism can impact students:

Noise sensitivity

Loud sounds, such as clapping, speaking through a microphone, or the general noise of a crowded room, can cause sensory overload. For many autistic students, this intense noise sensitivity can lead to distress or difficulty focusing on the assembly itself.

Visual distractions

Bright lights, large visual displays, or the movement of many people can further overwhelm individuals with autism, making it harder for them to engage with the event or stay calm. The visual stimuli can increase sensory overload, leading to heightened anxiety.

Difficulty with social participation

The social dynamics of a school assembly such as required participation, following complex instructions, or interacting with peers can be overwhelming for students with sensory processing differences. This can cause them to disengage or feel isolated from the group.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for strategies on managing noise sensitivity and improving participation in assemblies and large events.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.