Sight

How we select and respond to the things we see is called visual processing.

Autistic people are often good at visual processing so we try to use this strength. This could be through using visual supports.

How this can look different

Sensory avoiders may:

have limited eye contact and struggle to maintain focus
avoid bright light
be distracted by busy environments
be distracted or focussed on by small details
look at objects and people from the corner of their eye
complain of headaches or sore eyes

Sensory seekers may:

seek out light-up toys or things that spin and move
look closely at bright lights or intricate objects or patterns
flick their fingers in front of their eyes

How to help

You can help:

reduce clutter and visual stimulation / distraction in the environment
reduce distraction and glare through caps and sunglasses
dim lights or use lamps instead of main lights

Eye contact is linked with the social and communication aspects of autism and can be challenging for many autistic people. While we want to encourage our children to be able to make eye contact, we do not insist on it.

Find out how to use visuals to help your child learn and communicate