The Science Behind the Sensory Profile

The Science Behind the Sensory Profile — Educational Infographic (Printable, A2)

You will receive the printable unwatermarked version of this infographic

A clear, research-grounded visual explaining why one child seeks movement, another avoids sound, and another seems not to notice signals at all — it's about thresholds and responses, not good or bad behaviour.

This infographic covers:

• Seven sensory input systems: sound, touch, visual input, taste & smell, movement/vestibular, body awareness/proprioception, interoception
• Four sensory profile response patterns: Sensory Seeking (high threshold + active response), Low Registration (high threshold + passive response), Sensory Sensitivity (low threshold + passive response), Sensory Avoiding (low threshold + active response) — each with examples
• What the sensory profile looks at: how a child processes input across all seven systems in daily life
• Why it matters: explains daily behaviour, guides supports and accommodations, helps reduce overload, builds better regulation
• Key message: the sensory profile helps us see patterns, not problems
• Grounded in peer-reviewed research (Dunn 1997, 2001; Tomchek & Dunn 2007; Marco et al. 2011; Repetto et al. 2017; Marcilla-Jorda et al. 2024)

What you get:

• High-resolution PDF, print-ready and scalable up to A2 (420 × 594mm)
• Instant digital download

Perfect for: SEND and OT training, therapy rooms, staff CPD, parent carer forums, and personal understanding.

For personal, classroom, and professional educational use. Not for resale or redistribution.

© Nonspeaking Autism

Disclaimer:

This resource is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is designed to support understanding of autism, sensory processing, nervous system regulation, and behaviour from a neurodevelopmental perspective.

The information provided is not medical, psychological, therapeutic, or legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for assessment, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Every autistic person is unique. Strategies and supports should always be tailored to the individual's needs, strengths, and circumstances.

If a child displays a sudden change in behaviour, severe distress, signs of illness, injury, or behaviours that place themselves or others at risk, seek appropriate medical advice or emergency assistance where necessary.

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and reflects current understanding, knowledge in autism and neuroscience continues to evolve.

This resource is for the purchaser's personal, educational, or professional use only. It may not be copied, redistributed, resold, edited, shared publicly, or reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.

© Nonspeaking Autism 💙