What Is the Role of Sensory Integration Therapy in Improving Play Patterns in Autism?

PostedDecember 15, 2025

UpdatedDecember 15, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Sensory integration therapy for play in autism helps children process and respond to sensory input more effectively, which in turn can lead to more comfortable and varied play. Many autistic children struggle with how their brains interpret sounds, sights, textures or movement, which can result in either avoidance or intense seeking of certain sensations during play.

These sensory differences, including hyposensitivity, can interfere with social interaction and imaginative engagement. A child may avoid messy play due to tactile discomfort or become fixated on spinning toys due to a need for movement input. Sensory integration therapy for play in autism targets these patterns and aims to build better sensory regulation through tailored, play-based activities.

How Sensory Therapy Supports Play

Here are a few ways sensory integration therapy for play in autism improves how children experience and participate in play:

Increases comfort with varied sensory input

Activities like swinging, bouncing, or exploring different textures help children expand their play preferences without becoming overwhelmed.

Builds tolerance and flexibility

Gradual exposure to challenging stimuli in a safe setting supports more adaptable play responses.

Supports motor coordination and body awareness

Many therapy tasks improve balance and movement control, which are essential for active play and peer interaction.

By addressing sensory processing challenges directly, sensory integration therapy for play in autism creates more opportunities for joyful, shared, and spontaneous play experiences.

For personal consultation or targeted intervention strategies, visit providers like Autism Detect.

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.