Sensory Profile Checklist: Identify Autism Sensory Triggers

Child's Name

Age

Date

Sound & Auditory

Sound Seeking (High Threshold)

Loves loud music, screaming, or making noise

Enjoys loud appliances (blender, vacuum) or repetitive sounds

Seeks out noisy environments (busy restaurants, concerts)

Does not seem bothered by loud talking or shouting around them

Makes their own loud noises by banging, humming, or vocalizing

Sound Avoiding (Low Threshold)

Covers ears or startles at loud or sudden noises

Distressed by high-pitched sounds (fire alarm, microwave beep)

Prefers quiet environments; gets overwhelmed in busy places

Wears headphones or earplugs to manage sound

Melts down after exposure to loud kitchens or busy stores

Sight & Visual

Visual Seeking

Attracted to bright colors, flashing lights, or moving objects

Enjoys watching spinning objects (fans, wheels)

Seeks out visually "busy" environments

Makes repetitive hand movements in front of eyes (stimming)

Visual Avoiding

Bothered by bright lights; prefers dimmed or filtered light

Distressed by flickering lights (fluorescents)

Avoids eye contact or looking at certain patterns

Has difficulty with visual clutter (messy rooms cause stress)

Touch & Tactile

Touch Seeking

Loves deep pressure hugs, crashing into cushions, or rough play

Chews on objects (clothing, non-food items)

Enjoys messy play (mud, paint, water, slime)

Seeks out crunchy or chewy food textures

Touch Avoiding

Dislikes certain textures (sticky foods, wet hands)

Becomes distressed with unexpected touching or hugging

Picky about clothing (hates tags, seams, tight socks)

Avoids mixed food textures

Smell & Taste (The Kitchen)

Smell/Taste Seeking

Enjoys strong smells (perfume, vinegar, spices)

Smells objects or food before interacting with them

Prefers very flavored foods (spicy, sour, salty)

Smell/Taste Avoiding

Gags at cooking smells (onions, frying, garlic)

Very picky about food flavors; prefers bland/beige foods

Avoids unfamiliar foods purely based on smell

Understanding The Profile

Interpretation Guide

• Mostly Seeking: Your child may benefit from increased sensory input (sensory diet) to regulate.

• Mostly Avoiding: Your child may need a calmer environment, reduced noise, and predictable routines.

• Mixed Profile: Common in autism. Requires flexibility and observation of specific triggers.

Observations & Action Plan