Sensory Kidz Universe the Blog

  Is My Child Autistic? Recognizing the Early Signs For many parents, the thought that their child might be autistic comes with a mix of emotions—concern, confusion, and even relief at finally making sense of certain behaviours. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents differently in every child, and the signs can be subtle, making it difficult to distinguish between neurodivergent traits and typical child development. If you're wondering whether your child might be autistic, here are some early indicators to look for. Understanding Autism: What to Keep in Mind Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference , not a disease or something to “fix.” Every autistic child has unique strengths and challenges. Some children show clear signs early, while others don’t receive a diagnosis until later. Recognizing signs early can help in getting the right support and understanding for your child. Early Signs of Autism in Young Children Autism signs can appear as early as infancy but often become mor...

  Should I Tell My Child They Are Autistic? One of the biggest questions many parents face after an autism diagnosis is whether or not to tell their child. It’s completely natural to feel uncertain—how will they react? Will they understand? Is it better to wait until they’re older? While every child is different, many experts and autistic adults emphasize the importance of helping children understand their own neurodiversity in a positive and empowering way. Why It’s Important to Tell Your Child 1. Self-Awareness and Identity Understanding their diagnosis can help your child make sense of their experiences. Many autistic children already notice they experience the world differently from their peers—having a name for it can be a relief rather than a burden. 2. Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence Rather than feeling “different” without explanation, knowing they are autistic can help your child see their unique strengths and challenges. It can prevent them from internalizing negative fe...

  Helping Your Autistic Child Make Friends and Fit In at School: A Guide for Worried Parents As a parent, one of your biggest hopes is that your child finds happiness, connection, and a sense of belonging. But for parents of autistic children, me included, the worry that our child might struggle to make friends or fit in at school can feel overwhelming. If you’re facing this concern, know that you are not alone, and more importantly, there are ways to help.  I used to say that when my child started school, I would be that parent hiding behind a tree at lunch times to see if my child was making friends! Understanding Social Challenges in Autism Autistic children often experience social interactions differently from their neurotypical peers. They may struggle with unspoken social rules, find group settings overwhelming, or have different ways of expressing interest in friendships. This doesn’t mean they don’t want friends—it simply means they may need a little more guidance and ...

Sensory play is a fantastic way to support your child’s development, encourage creativity, and keep them entertained—all without breaking the bank. You don’t need expensive toys or elaborate setups. In fact, some of the best sensory play activities can be done using everyday household items! Here are five simple, mess-free, and budget-friendly sensory play ideas to try at home. 1. Mystery Bag or Box What You Need: A pillowcase, small box, or tote bag & various household objects (spoons, toy cars, cotton balls, combs, etc.) How to Play: Place different textured items inside the bag or box. Have your child reach in without looking and describe how the object feels. Is it soft? Bumpy? Smooth? This activity engages their sense of touch and builds vocabulary. Bonus: Add a guessing element—let them try to identify objects just by touch! 2. DIY Sensory Bottles What You Need: Empty plastic bottles, water, oil, glitter, beads, food colouring (optional) How to Play: Fill a bottle halfwa...

Have you noticed your child is mesmerized by spinning objects? Whether it’s watching a ceiling fan, spinning a toy car’s wheels, or staring at a washing machine in action, many children—especially those with sensory sensitivities—are fascinated by things that rotate. But why? Let’s dive into the science behind this behaviour and why spinning objects can be so captivating, especially for kids with sensory processing differences. The Science Behind Spinning Fascination 1. A Feast for the Visual System Spinning objects provide a unique visual stimulus. Our brains are wired to detect movement, and circular motion creates a repetitive and predictable pattern that can be soothing or mesmerizing. For children who are sensitive to chaotic visual input, the predictability of spinning can feel calming. 2. Vestibular Stimulation & Sensory Seeking The vestibular system (which controls balance and spatial awareness) plays a huge role in why some kids love spinning. Watching a spinning object c...

Why do kids love watching the same videos over and over? Learn how repetition helps with learning, memory, speech, and emotional security! Why Do Kids Love Repetition? I know, I know, watching the same videos on repeat constantly is annoying for us! But read below as to why its a good thing for your child! 1. Repetition Helps with Learning & Memory Children’s brains are like sponges, absorbing everything around them. When they watch the same video repeatedly, they’re reinforcing what they’ve learned, whether it’s a song, a phrase, or a movement. Each time they watch, they recognize patterns, make connections, and strengthen their memory. This is especially helpful for learning language, numbers, and basic concepts like colours and shapes. 2. Predictability Creates Comfort & Security The world can be unpredictable for young children, and sensory kids often find comfort in routine. Watching the same video gives them a sense of control because they know what’s coming next. This pr...