Sensory Integration in Supporting Language Development

When we think about speech and language development, we often imagine children learning new words, forming sentences, or practising sounds. But for many neurodivergent children, especially those with sensory processing differences (common in autism, ADHD, and developmental delays), there’s a critical piece that must come first: sensory regulation.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how sensory integration plays a powerful role in helping children communicate, and how parents and educators can create environments that support both regulation and connection.

What Is Sensory Integration?

Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to process and make sense of the sensory information it receives—from touch, sound, movement, body awareness, taste, and vision. When this system works smoothly, children can engage, attend, play, and communicate. But when there are challenges in sensory processing, children may become overwhelmed (hyper-responsive) or seek out excessive input (hypo-responsive), making communication incredibly difficult.

For example:

• A child who is sensitive to noise may shut down during group activities.

• A child who is constantly seeking movement may struggle to sit still and listen.

• A child who avoids touch may resist hand-over-hand support or hugs during play.

The Link Between Sensory Integration and Communication

Research shows that a regulated body supports a communicative mind. If a child is dysregulated—due to sensory overwhelm or under-stimulation—their brain is in “survival mode,” not “learning mode.” This affects attention, engagement, social connection, and ultimately, speech and language development.

What the Research Says:

• A 2019 study in Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience found that sensory modulation affects language development by influencing how children engage socially with their environment.¹

• Occupational therapy literature highlights the “Arousal-Attention-Language” pathway—regulated sensory input helps maintain optimal arousal, which is necessary for attention and language learning.²

• Children with sensory processing difficulties often score lower in expressive and receptive language assessments, not due to lack of capacity, but due to environmental and sensory barriers.³

Practical Strategies for Parents at Home

Supporting your child’s sensory needs doesn’t require fancy equipment—it begins with observation and empathy. Here are some home-friendly strategies:

✅ Build a Sensory Profile:

• Notice when your child is calm vs. dysregulated. What’s happening in their environment?

• Do they avoid or crave certain sensations (e.g. textures, noise, movement)?

✅ Create a Sensory-Safe Space:

• Use soft lighting, noise-cancelling headphones, calming textures, or a small tent/den where your child can retreat to regulate.

✅ Pre-Regulation Before Communication:

• Before expecting a child to talk or follow instructions, meet their sensory needs first—through bouncing, swinging, deep pressure (tight hugs or weighted blankets), or calming music.

✅ Use Movement to Support Language:

• Incorporate speech practice during gross motor play. E.g., jumping while naming animals, or throwing a ball while taking turns saying words.

✅ Slow Down and Tune In:

• Allow more time for your child to respond.

• Use gestures, visuals, and emotion-rich facial expressions.

Practical Tips for Educators in Schools

In classroom settings, regulation must come before instruction. Here’s how to support sensory needs while boosting communication:

📎 Incorporate Sensory Breaks:

• Include short, movement-based activities throughout the day—walking, chair push-ups, wall squishes, fidget breaks.

📎 Provide Options for Seating and Learning:

• Wobble cushions, standing desks, or quiet corners can make a big difference for sensory-seeking or avoiding children.

📎 Visuals and Routines:

• Predictable schedules, visual aids, and clear transitions reduce anxiety and cognitive load.

📎 Collaborate with OT and SLT:

• Combine input from therapists to create integrated learning and communication goals that respect sensory needs.

The Takeaway: Regulate Before You Communicate

Understanding and supporting your child’s sensory world is one of the most powerful ways to nurture communication. When children feel safe and regulated, their brain is more open to learning, engagement, and language growth.

Whether at home or in school, tuning into a child’s sensory profile can open doors that rigid therapy goals or one-size-fits-all methods cannot.

As SLTs, we’re increasingly moving toward neurodivergent-affirming practice—where regulation, relationship, and respect are the foundation for language.

References

1. Ben-Sasson, A., et al. (2019). Sensory modulation and social difficulties in children with autism. Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience.

2. Schaaf, R. C., & Mailloux, Z. (2015). Clinician’s guide for implementing Ayres Sensory Integration®. AOTA Press.

3. Baranek, G. T. (2002). Efficacy of sensory and motor interventions for children with autism. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.