Sensory issues -advice needed please

[PouffeGalore]

Had our appointment with Ds at Social communication Clinic today and was expecting AS diagnosis. Dr said that from history/background reports that was what she expected to tell us but when she met DS could not see any obvious signs of it and thinks he is complicated. We have to now go on Ados test waiting list and complete sensory questionnaire as his excellent hearing and touch issues could be partly causing the anger problems at school. My question is if his hearing is so good that classroom noise is agitating him what can be done to improve this? Has anyone had this problem with their dc? Any advice gratefully received.

i work with an audiologist who sometimes uses "white noise generators" for children with hyperacusis or sound sensitivity.

there is some information about them on this website, but essentially, they are fitted like little in-the-ear hearing aids and they make a very gentle white noise sound which allows the child to become accustomed to sound, although this may take months. my colleague has found that they are effective. hope you find something to help your ds.

Thanks RR. I guess we'll have to wait and see what the clinic recommends. Just worried about that he'll get excluded from school before any help can be arranged.

perhaps a fact sheet like this one would help to raise awareness in your ds's school and give them ideas for supporting your ds in the meantime.

(don't be put off by the deafness uk title - it doesn't mean your ds has a hearing loss, just difficulty processing sound)

Hi Pouffe! I have a noise sensitive boy too. Audiologist has also mentioned the white noise generators to me, but I'm reluctant to go down that route at present as she says they are very much a last resort. Soemtimes DS wears ear defenders, but I worry that as he gets older this will mark him out as different IYSWIM.

I have heard about something called AIT (auditory integration therapy) but from what I hear it is quite difficult, but it can improve things, so may be worth looking into.

I have also read something about working on the proprioceptive systems and the verstibular systems, as if these are more integrated then it can reduce the auditory problems. You need to consult an OT really, as they will be able to advise you on th e best way forward.

Thanks RR & DD. Hopefully when the questionnaire has been completed we might get some help from OT. Fairly new to having to get help and realise from all the SN threads that it's likely to be a long uphill battle. Main concern is that secondary school is fast approaching and we just don't think he will cope with it all. He already feels different from the other children and is very sensitive/upset about it all.