How does play involving fixation on certain textures appear in Autism?

PostedDecember 15, 2025

UpdatedDecember 15, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

When we talk about texture play in autism, we refer to situations where a child repeatedly engages with objects because of how they feel, their material, surface, or tactile properties. Rather than using a toy for varied play, the child may focus on stroking, rubbing, squeezing or exploring the same texture repeatedly. These behaviours often stem from differences in sensory processing and tactile sensitivity.

Why texture fixation becomes central in play

Children who are sensitive (or under‑sensitive) to touch often seek out solid, soft or distinctive textures to regulate their sensory state. When a texture feels “just right,” they may return to it repeatedly. This behaviour serves several functions:

Comfort and self‑regulation

Repeated texture interaction offers predictable sensory feedback. Stroking a smooth surface or pressing into a soft fabric can be soothing. In moments of stress or unstructured play, the child may default to texture play to calm themselves.

Exploration and mastery

By revisiting a texture, the child deepens their understanding of its properties, how it stretches, bends, resists or rebounds. This degree of focus helps them gain intricate sensory knowledge which others might overlook.

Play structure around texture

Rather than engaging in imaginative, symbolic play, the child’s play scenario may centre around the texture, setting up that object repeatedly, comparing surfaces or sequencing textures. Their play logic maps onto tactile satisfaction more than narrative or social intent.

Resistance to change

Because texture play brings comfort, the child may resist substituting similar but not identical textures. Even small differences in tackiness, coolness or grain may provoke avoidance or distress.

Rather than seeing this as a limitation, recognising texture play in autism highlights the child’s sensory world. The challenge and opportunity lie in gently expanding the repertoire of textures, supporting flexibility without dismissing the comfort and control it provides.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for assessments of tactile profiles and tailored strategies to expand texture engagement respectfully.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Unusual Play Patterns.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve 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 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.