Understanding your child's sensory world
Have you noticed your child becoming distressed at the sound of a vacuum cleaner or perhaps they can’t bear the feeling of the seams in their socks? These behaviours might be more than just quirks. Sensory processing difficulties are particularly prevalent among autistic children. In the UK, research has shown that 88 per cent of autistic children are affected by auditory issues, 75 per cent by touch, 50 per cent by vision, and 38 per cent by smell.
Sensory problems not only impact on a child’s learning, but can also affect their emotional state, creating feelings of discomfort and anxiety
Understanding these difficulties is really important for parents and carers as it allows them to support their child better and advocate for their needs.
Spicy Minds’ sensory processing test helps you make sense of your child’s reactions and discover practical ways to support them.
A deep dive into the senses
Our comprehensive test looks at how your child processes information from 13 different sensory systems:
Hearing: How they respond to sounds, noise levels and verbal instructions.
Chemical sensitivity: Their reactions to strong flavours, spices or mint.
Time awareness: How they manage time and handle schedules.
Balance: Their comfort with movement, playground equipment and coordination.
Taste: Food preferences, texture sensitivities and mealtime behaviours.
Internal body awareness: Recognition of hunger, thirst and other body signals.
Movement: How they control their body and engage in physical activities.
Pain perception: Their reaction to bumps, scrapes and discomfort.
Smell: Sensitivity to, or interest in, different scents.
Body position: Awareness of where their body is in space.
Touch: Reactions to different textures, clothing and tactile experiences.
Temperature: Comfort levels with hot and cold sensations.
Vision: How they process visual information and respond to different environments.
Why we created this test
As parents and professionals supporting children with sensory differences, we found that existing assessments often fell short. Many only addressed a few senses, leaving out important aspects of sensory processing. Others lacked practical suggestions tailored to different environments. Most assessments did not adapt to a child’s development over time or provided strategies that were difficult to implement.
How we developed it
This assessment is grounded in current research on sensory processing and neurodevelopment. We collaborated with professionals in occupational therapy, psychology and education to ensure its accuracy and effectiveness. Additionally, we incorporated real-world experiences from families, along with strategies that have been successfully implemented in diverse settings.
We structured the assessment around three key ways sensory challenges manifest: under-responsiveness, where a child may not notice certain sensory input; over-responsiveness, where sensations feel too intense or overwhelming; and sensory seeking, where a child actively looks for more sensory experiences.
Meaningful information and strategies
While no test is perfect, we have worked hard to make this one as thorough and practical as possible. It covers all major sensory systems that impact daily life and provides specific strategies you can start using immediately. The assessment is designed to be flexible, offering different approaches for home, school, holidays and work environments. Additionally, it is age-appropriate, evolving with your child from primary school through secondary school and into adulthood.
Importantly, this assessment does not just focus on challenges—it also highlights your child’s sensory strengths. Above all, it recognises that you are the expert on your child. The insights and strategies provided are meant to complement your understanding, not replace it.
To sum up
This test serves as a starting point for meaningful conversations with teachers, therapists, and family members. It helps articulate what you may have already observed and offers new perspectives on how to create sensory-friendly environments where your child can thrive.