Autism Inclusion Teacher
Interoception Explainer Video - https://vimeo.com/440561147
Interoception is an internal sensory system in which the internal physical and emotional states of the body are noticed, recognised/identified and responded to. Interoception skills are required for a range of basic and more advanced functions such as knowing when to go to the toilet, being aware that you are becoming angry or upset and being able to manage your emotions proactively. When children and students have not yet developed interoception skills they will struggle with not only their own emotions but with social interactions and even just being around others may be difficult for them to manage. Children and students with well-developed interoception are able to use both logic and emotions to respond to their environment, whereas those without tend to rely on logic and have to carefully think through their possible responses to each situation. Thinking through each situation long term can be extremely tiring and can contribute to overload, shutdown, meltdowns, anxiety and depression.
Another way of understanding interoception is to describe it as mindful body awareness. Someone who is skilled in this can for example tell when their heart beat is signalling fear versus excitement because they can notice and recognise/identify all the other internal bodily signals that they are experiencing which help them to process and respond to their overall emotional state. On a more basic level, interoception enables people to know when they are hungry, thirsty, tired etc, all of which are necessary precursors to positive development and self-regulation. All students, but especially students with Autism, benefit from being taught interoception skills because it helps children and young people connect to and learn to understand their bodies and emotions. It helps children and young people develop a sense of belonging. Below are some videos to show some different interoception activities you could do at home-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQ_Napa80ro
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLoK5rOl8Qk
With kindness,
Lisa Williams