Understanding Sensory Processing in Assessment

Sensory processing is often one of the first things people notice.

A child may be sensitive to noise, unsettled by certain textures, or easily overwhelmed in busy environments. These responses can raise questions about what might be happening—and whether an assessment is needed.

While sensory processing is an important part of understanding how a child experiences the world, it is not assessed on its own when it comes to FASD.

There is no single test for sensory processing, and no sensory test that can diagnose FASD.

Instead, sensory processing is considered as one piece of a much larger picture.

As part of an assessment, occupational therapists may be involved in exploring how a child responds to sensory input. This can include looking at how they react to sound, light, touch, and movement, as well as how their body manages coordination, regulation, and daily activities.

This process is not based on one moment or one observation.

It is built over time.

Assessment often includes:

• observing how a child responds in different environments

• identifying patterns in behaviour and regulation

• gathering input from caregivers about what is happening at home

• understanding how sensory experiences are impacting sleep, routines, and daily life

Rather than focusing on a single test, the goal is to understand how the brain is receiving and responding to the world.

When FASD is being considered, this information becomes part of a broader, multidisciplinary assessment. A team of professionals works together to look at development, learning, behaviour, and overall brain function.

Sensory processing plays a role in that understanding—but it is not used on its own to determine a diagnosis.

Because of this, many families may notice sensory differences early, but not receive clear answers until later.

Understanding this can be helpful.

It shifts the focus from trying to find a single explanation…
to recognizing patterns, supporting needs, and responding to what is being seen in the moment.

Because even without a diagnosis,
those experiences are real—and support still matters.