Children with autism often have atypical auditory processing such as hypersensitivity– pain or discomfort with sound and hyper acuity– hearing sounds too well or too loudly. To handle these uncomfortable perceptions they may withdraw, disengage from their auditory world or they may produce sounds that they’re system can handle–auditory self-stimulation. Behaviors of children with autism include: covering ears, running from a sound, crying, tantrums, self-injurious behavior, tuning out or withdrawing. Their language impairment may, in part, be due to poor synchronization with and between cortical language processing regions. (Mack, 2007)
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According to Martha Mack, founder of the Listen and Learn Centre, Tomatis results for children with autism include normalized sensitivity to sound, reduced tactile defensiveness, higher tolerance for different textures of food, clothing, etc.; greater attentiveness for visual acuity and auditory stimuli. Language development can include improved comprehension and speech and increased experimentation with own voice, increased length and complexity of sentences and greater desire to communicate. Social behavior can include increased positive interactions with others, greater affection and willingness to be around people. More frequent initiation of contact and communication; improved eye contact and less aggression in interactions. Positive change in personal well being can include more flexibility in routines.
