19 | Sensory Regulation in Autism | Leinfuss, Newchok & O’Hara
Sensory regulation can impact nearly every part of a child’s daily life, from emotional regulation and participation at school to communication, transitions, and social interactions. For many parents, it can feel difficult to know what behaviors mean, how to respond, and what kinds of sensory supports may actually help.
In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene speaks with occupational therapists Amanda Newchok and Erin O’Hara about the Ready to Learn and Play Sensory Regulation Framework they created alongside Janice Leinfuss. The framework was designed to help children, caregivers, educators, and therapists better understand sensory processing and develop practical strategies for self-regulation across different environments.
Throughout the conversation, Amanda and Erin explain how behaviors that are often labeled as “problem behaviors” can instead be understood as sensory clues that communicate what a child’s nervous system may need in that moment.
Listen to the Full Episode
This episode is especially helpful for parents, caregivers, therapists, and educators supporting children with sensory processing differences, emotional regulation challenges, or sensory-seeking and sensory-avoidant behaviors.
Memorable Quote
“Your body is telling you something. Let’s use that clue.”
In This Episode We Discuss
• What sensory regulation means
• Understanding sensory-seeking behaviors
• Reframing behaviors as sensory clues
• The four phases of the Ready to Learn and Play Framework
• Supporting self-regulation at home and school
• Teaching children sensory awareness
• Using visual supports and sensory choice cards
• Why caregiver coaching matters
Key Themes From the Conversation
Behaviors Often Communicate Sensory Needs
One of the strongest themes throughout this episode is the idea that behaviors are often communication.
Amanda and Erin explain that behaviors such as rocking, muscle tensing, squinting, fidgeting, or movement-seeking may be sensory clues that help caregivers better understand what a child’s nervous system needs.
Rather than viewing these behaviors as “bad,” the framework encourages caregivers to approach them with curiosity and support.
Self-Regulation Skills Can Be Taught
Another important theme is that children can gradually learn to better understand their own sensory regulation needs over time.
The framework introduces sensory experiences, visual supports, and simple language that help children begin connecting:
• how their body feels
• what sensory input they may need
• which strategies help them regulate
This approach supports autonomy and self-awareness rather than relying entirely on adults to direct regulation strategies.
Generalization Across Everyday Life Matters
The conversation also highlights the importance of helping children use regulation skills across different settings.
A strategy that works in therapy may need to look different:
• at school
• on the playground
• at home
• with grandparents
• in the community
The framework helps children and caregivers think flexibly about how to access sensory supports across real-life situations.
Common Questions Parents Ask
What are sensory-seeking behaviors?
Sensory-seeking behaviors are actions children may use to help their nervous system feel more regulated or organized. This can include movement-seeking, crashing, spinning, rocking, squeezing, or other repetitive sensory experiences.
How can I help my child learn self-regulation?
Children often learn self-regulation gradually through supportive coaching, sensory awareness, visual supports, and opportunities to practice regulation strategies across everyday environments.
Why do visual supports help with sensory regulation?
Visual supports can make abstract concepts easier to understand and remember. Many children benefit from visual reminders that help connect body sensations with possible regulation strategies.
Why This Conversation Matters for Families
Many parents are told what behaviors to stop without being given tools to understand why those behaviors are happening in the first place.
This conversation encourages families to shift from punishment and frustration toward curiosity, support, and collaborative problem-solving. By helping children better understand their own sensory needs, caregivers can support greater participation, regulation, communication, and confidence over time.
Resources Mentioned
Ready to Learn and Play Framework
https://www.readytolearnandplay.com
About the Guests
Amanda Newchok, Erin O’Hara, and Janice Leinfuss are pediatric occupational therapists and creators of the Ready to Learn and Play Sensory Regulation Framework. Their work focuses on helping children, families, and professionals better understand sensory processing through practical and accessible self-regulation strategies.
Related Resources for Parents
If you found this episode helpful, you may also enjoy these resources:
• Sensory Processing 101: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs
• Understanding Autism Meltdowns: What They Are and How to Support Your Child
• Positive Behavior Strategies for Neurodivergent Children at Home and School
• Creating a Supportive Home Environment for Pediatric Occupational Therapy
Explore more parent resources at:
https://pureheartstherapy.com/blog
