What is Sensory Processing

Source: https://canfasd.ca/2025/08/13/new-issue-paper-sensory-processing-and-fasd

Sensory processing is how the brain receives, organizes, and responds to information from the environment.

This includes what we see, hear, feel, taste, and smell—as well as movement, balance, and internal signals like hunger, pain, or fatigue.

For many people, this process happens automatically. The brain filters out what isn’t important and helps us focus on what is.

For individuals with FASD, this system can work differently.

The brain may have difficulty filtering input, organizing information, or responding in a consistent way. As a result, everyday environments can feel more intense, less predictable, or harder to manage.

This can show up in different ways. Some individuals may be more sensitive to sensory input. Sounds may feel louder, lights may feel brighter, or certain textures may feel uncomfortable or distracting.

Others may seek out more input—moving constantly, touching objects, or needing more stimulation to stay regulated.

It is also common to see a mix of both, depending on the environment and the moment.

Sensory processing differences can affect daily activities such as getting dressed, eating, focusing, sleeping, or participating in busy environments like schools or public spaces.

These responses are not intentional behaviours. They are the result of how the brain is interpreting and responding to sensory information.

It is also important to recognize that sensory responses may not be consistent. What feels manageable one day may feel overwhelming the next, depending on factors such as fatigue, stress, or changes in the environment.

Understanding sensory processing helps shift how we interpret behaviour.

Instead of asking, “Why are they reacting this way?”
we can begin to ask, “What is the brain experiencing right now?”

This shift allows for more effective, supportive responses—by reducing overwhelm, adjusting environments, and meeting the individual where they are.

Did You Know

• Sensory processing differences are common in individuals with FASD and can affect daily life in ways that aren’t always visible.

• A person may be over-sensitive, under-sensitive, or both—depending on the environment and the moment.

• Sensory overwhelm can build gradually, even if the response seems sudden.

• What feels manageable one day may feel overwhelming the next due to fatigue, stress, or changes in routine.

• Sensory responses are not intentional behaviours—they are the brain’s way of coping with input.

• Small changes to the environment can make a significant difference in how someone is able to function and regulate.