A compassionate exploration of the sensory world of autistic children, offering insight into why everyday environments can feel intensely overwhelming and emotionally demanding.
In The William Gomes Podcast episode “Sensory Life: Understanding the World Through an Autistic Child’s Experience,” William Gomes explores what daily life can be like for children who process sensory information differently. The episode describes how sounds may feel sharp, lights painfully bright, smells overpowering, and emotions deeply embodied, creating a sensory landscape that requires constant effort to navigate.
Living in a Sensory-Intense World
The discussion highlights how sensory input often accumulates gradually across the day, shaping behaviour, regulation, and emotional wellbeing. Gomes explains why sensory overload is frequently misunderstood as behavioural difficulty, and why recognising the sensory roots of distress is essential for responding with empathy rather than correction.
By shifting attention from behaviour to experience, the episode encourages adults to reconsider how children’s actions are interpreted.
Seeing the World From the Child’s Perspective
A central theme of the episode is perspective. Gomes invites listeners to step into a child’s sensory world and consider the courage required to function in environments that can feel unpredictable and overwhelming.
Rather than focusing on changing the child, the conversation emphasises how small, thoughtful adjustments to environments, routines, and expectations can significantly reduce stress and increase a sense of safety.
Supporting Sensory Regulation With Compassion
Part of an ongoing autism series on The William Gomes Podcast, this episode is intended for parents, educators, and professionals seeking a deeper understanding of sensory processing and its role in autistic development. By centring the child’s lived experience, the episode promotes more compassionate, respectful, and effective approaches to support.
Listen to the Episode
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-william-gomes-podcast/id1582677051?i=1000739645200
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0I5vcHPEHExXMVEluzGp2f?si=08019910105d4e53
YouTube
https://youtu.be/MNoqVmUk4bY?si=Na6lFR4CjDyI2jaG
The William Gomes Podcast continues to publish accessible, neurodiversity-affirming discussions focused on improving understanding of autism across families, education, and professional practice.
