Touch

Our sense of touch protects us and helps us react to our surroundings appropriately. For example, this can be when we touch something hot and pull our hand away without thinking.

When our sense of touch is dysregulated, it can feel very strange. For example, this can be when we get pins and needles or an anaesthetic at the dentist.

How this can look different

Sensory avoiders may:

dislike messy play and become distressed if their hands or face are messy
be fussy with certain food textures
dislike any touch, even light touch
become anxious or upset when in a crowd or close to others
refuse to wear certain clothing (or clothes labels) or constantly take clothes off
walk on their toes
dislike having their hair or nails cut

Sensory seekers might:

look for tight squeezes and close contact with others
search for different textures they can explore through touch
enjoy rough and tumble but not be aware of their strength
not notice when they have messy hands or face, of if their clothes are twisted
be heavy-handed, pressing too hard with pencils, for example
like being barefoot

How to help

You can help sensory avoiders by:

encouraging them to experience as many tactile experiences as possible in a safe and non-threatening way and at their own pace (for example, a feely box where they can feel for objects without looking)
waiting for them to touch something – do not put their hands on it. Let them watch you do it first if they’re hesitant
building up their sensory experiences from things that are dry to wet to sticky and from smooth to rough

You can help sensory seekers with:

firm pressure when touching or holding can be more tolerable than a light, ticklish touch
deep pressure massages – use the palms of your hands (not the fingertips) and press firmly. This is calming and can help them become less sensitive to touch.
resistive (push and pull) activities or activities that give deep pressure such as jumping on a trampoline, rough play, having a cuddle, tug of war, carrying shopping bags.