25 Jul Understanding Seasonal Changes and How They Can Affect Your Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

For many families, a change in season means a change in wardrobe or activities. But for a child on the autism spectrum, seasonal transitions—especially the shift into winter—can sometimes feel overwhelming and disruptive.

Many autistic children experience difficulties when routines or environments change, and seasonal transitions can bring new sensory experiences that feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable. As a parent, understanding these potential challenges can help you support your child and make the transition smoother for both of you.

Why Does This Happen?

Research suggests that a high percentage—between 45% and 95%—of autistic individuals experience some form of sensory sensitivity. This means they may process sights, sounds, textures, smells, or temperatures differently from neurotypical individuals.

During winter, the environment can feel very different across several sensory domains—touch (heavier, layered clothing), sight (duller light and less greenery), sound (heaters turning on/off, wind), and temperature (cold air on the skin). For some autistic children, these changes may feel more intense or more challenging to cope with.

To support your child, it helps to understand their unique sensory profile. Many behaviours associated with autism—such as meltdowns, clothing refusal, or sensory seeking—are linked to how a child experiences sensory input.

Some children experience hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness), while others experience hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness).

What is Hypersensitivity in Autism?

Hypersensitivity refers to the brain processing sensory information in an intensified manner, which can lead to feelings of discomfort, distraction, or even pain.

Autistic children who are hypersensitive may:

• Experience tactile overload from thick or scratchy fabrics, such as jackets, scarves, or socks.
• Feel dysregulated from tight or layered clothing worn for long periods.
• Feel cold air on their skin or face, which may cause sharp or painful sensations.
• Feel visually overwhelmed by changes in light or scenery (e.g., bare trees, dull winter colours).
• Be bothered by new sounds, such as heaters, wind, or echoey indoor spaces.

Example: A hypersensitive child might try to remove clothing or avoid wearing certain types of fabric or textures.

What is Hyposensitivity in Autism?

Hyposensitivity refers to the brain processing sensory information in a dulled or reduced way, sometimes not fully registering the input.

Autistic children who are hyposensitive may:

• Not register cold weather properly and refuse to wear warm clothes.
• Constantly seek pressure, enjoying tight clothing, heavy blankets, or pressing against people or furniture.
• Fail to notice when they are too warm in layered clothing, which can lead to irritability or fatigue.
• Enjoy touching cold surfaces such as windows, tiles, or floors.

Example: A hyposensitive child might stand too close to a heater, unaware of the potential danger, or insist on being barefoot even in cold weather.

While research specifically on winter-related sensory challenges in autism is limited, many parents and clinicians observe that seasonal changes can affect autistic children differently. Understanding whether your child is more sensitive or less sensitive to sensory input can guide you in preparing for these transitions.

By noticing their triggers and preferences, you can make minor adjustments—like choosing softer fabrics, layering gradually, or preparing visual supports—to help your child feel more comfortable and regulated during seasonal changes.