42 | Smell Sensitivity & Sensory Processing in Autism | Dipali Devani

Some children are deeply affected by smells in ways that can look confusing from the outside. A certain food, detergent, perfume, or cooking ingredient may lead to distress, avoidance, nausea, or a big emotional response. For many families, these moments are not simply about “picky behavior.” They may be connected to sensory processing and how the child’s nervous system is experiencing the world.

In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with occupational therapist Dipali Devani about smell sensitivity and how it can affect neurodivergent children, especially autistic children and those with sensory processing differences. Together, they explore why smell can feel so intense, how it connects to regulation and memory, and what parents can do to support their child in gentle, practical ways.

This conversation is the first installment in the Calming the Chaos series and offers a thoughtful introduction to one part of the sensory world that often gets overlooked.

Listen to the Full Episode

Listen to this episode for a practical, parent-friendly conversation about smell sensitivity, sensory regulation, and simple strategies families can try at home.

Memorable Quote

“You don’t know what else is involved. You might not know what else the child needs as a support.”

In This Episode We Discuss

• What smell sensitivity can look like in daily life

• How sensory processing affects behavior and regulation

• Why smells can trigger strong reactions in some children

• The connection between smell, taste, and memory

• How to start tracking sensory triggers at home

• Gentle ways to introduce difficult smells in small steps

• When calming or alerting scents may be helpful

• Why occupational therapy can offer support and guidance

Key Themes From the Conversation

Smell can be a major sensory trigger

The conversation begins by unpacking something many parents notice but may not always understand: smells can create powerful reactions. For some children, certain scents feel overwhelming, intrusive, or even distressing. This can show up as gagging, running away, screaming, self-hitting, aggression, or shutting down.

Behavior often reflects regulation, not defiance

One of the most helpful takeaways from this episode is the reminder that sensory-related reactions are not simply “bad behavior.” When a child cannot process incoming sensory information well, the body may respond in ways that look intense or unexpected. Looking at the sensory piece first can open the door to more compassionate support.

Small steps matter

Dipali shares a practical approach for helping children become more comfortable with challenging smells over time. Instead of forcing exposure, she recommends journaling patterns and then gradually introducing smells in small, manageable ways while the child is engaged in something safe or enjoyable. This slower approach can help reduce overwhelm and build tolerance with support.

Smells can also be used as tools

The episode also explores how certain scents may support regulation. Calming scents like lavender, rose, or sandalwood may help during quiet activities or bedtime routines, while more alerting scents like lemon or citrus may help increase wakefulness and attention in some situations.

Common Questions Parents Ask

Why does my child react so strongly to certain smells?

Some children experience smells much more intensely because of sensory processing differences. A scent that feels mild to one person can feel overwhelming or dysregulating to another.

Should I keep trying to expose my child to smells they dislike?

Gentle exposure can sometimes help, but it is important not to push too hard or too fast. Small, supported steps are often more helpful than forcing a child to tolerate something their body is not ready for.

When should I reach out for occupational therapy support?

If smell sensitivity is affecting meals, routines, community outings, or your child’s ability to stay regulated, it can be very helpful to consult an occupational therapist. OT can help families understand the bigger sensory picture and create a plan that feels practical and supportive.

Why This Conversation Matters for Families

Smell sensitivity can affect more than mealtimes. It can show up in school, self-care routines, family dinners, public places, and everyday transitions. When parents understand that these reactions may be connected to sensory processing, they can shift from frustration to curiosity and support.

This conversation also reminds families that they do not have to figure everything out alone. With observation, small steps, and the right support, children can build more comfort and families can feel more confident responding to what they see.

Resources Mentioned

• The Out-of-Sync Child

• Occupational therapy

• Sensory diets

About the Guest

Dipali Devani is an occupational therapist at Pure Hearts Therapy who specializes in sensory integration and practical support for children and families. She is also an Ayurvedic practitioner and brings a thoughtful, integrative approach to her work.

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

• Home-Based Therapy: 5 Benefits of In-Home Pediatric Care for Children with Disabilities

Explore more parent resources at:
https://pureheartstherapy.com/blog