The five stages of sensory processing explain how the brain receives, understands, and responds to sensory information. These stages help us make sense of sights, sounds, touch, movement, and more. When one stage doesn’t work smoothly, sensory challenges can show up—especially in children with autism.
Understanding these stages can help parents better recognize sensory needs and support their child more effectively.
How Sensory Processing Works
Sensory processing happens constantly, even when we don’t notice it. The brain is always taking in information from the body and environment, deciding what matters, and guiding responses. For some children, especially those with sensory sensitivities, this process can be overwhelming or confusing.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the five stages.
The Five Stages of Sensory Processing
Sensory Input
This is the first stage. Sensory input happens when the body receives information through the senses, such as sound, touch, smell, taste, sight, movement, and body position.
Examples include hearing a loud noise, feeling clothing on the skin, or noticing bright lights.
Sensory Transmission
Next, the sensory information travels from the sensory organs to the brain through the nervous system. This step happens quickly and automatically.
If transmission is disrupted, the brain may not get clear or complete sensory information.
Sensory Interpretation
In this stage, the brain makes sense of the sensory input. It decides what the sensation is and whether it’s important or not.
For example, the brain recognizes whether a sound is background noise or something that needs attention.
Sensory Organization
Here, the brain organizes sensory information and compares it to past experiences. It helps decide how to respond.
If this stage is challenging, a child may struggle to filter sensations or react in unexpected ways.
Sensory Response
This is the final stage. The body responds to the sensory information, either through movement, behavior, or emotional reaction.
Responses might include covering ears, avoiding certain textures, seeking movement, or showing strong emotional reactions.
Why These Stages Matter
When all five stages work together, sensory processing feels natural. When one or more stages are difficult, children may experience sensory overload, avoidance, or sensory-seeking behaviors.
Understanding these stages helps parents recognize that sensory behaviors are not “bad behavior,” but signals that a child’s brain is processing information differently.
At Connect N Care ABA, we support children with sensory challenges by building individualized strategies that fit into everyday life. We proudly serve families throughout North Carolina and Virginia, helping children develop skills in comfortable, supportive environments.
Our ABA services include:
- ABA therapy at home to support learning in familiar settings
- School-based ABA therapy to help children succeed in the classroom
- Center-based ABA therapy for structured, hands-on support
- ABA parent training to help families manage sensory needs at home
If your child struggles with sensory processing, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how our ABA services can support your child and your family.
FAQs
Do sensory processing challenges affect behavior?
Yes. Sensory challenges can impact emotions, focus, and behavior, especially when a child feels overwhelmed.
Is sensory processing disorder the same as autism?
No. Sensory processing challenges are common in autism, but they can also occur on their own.
How can parents support sensory processing at home?
Creating predictable routines and using calming sensory activities can help support regulation.
Can ABA therapy help with sensory processing?
Yes. ABA therapy often includes strategies to help children manage sensory input and build coping skills.
Sources:
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/sensory-processing-disorder-spd
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9688399/
- https://www.understood.org/en/articles/understanding-sensory-processing-challenges
- https://childmind.org/article/sensory-processing-issues-explained/
- https://www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk/ness-sensory-processing/
