Different levels of on the autism spectrum can be identified in autistic children depending on the criteria and severity of their autistic features. Three levels within the autistic disorder have been widely recognized throughout the years in calculating the amount of help an individual requires to partake in daily activities. It’s based on the presence of both social communication difficulties and restrictive or repetitive behaviors. Because sensory needs and behaviors can vary so much across levels, many families find that having the right tools in place—especially for things like oral sensory needs—can make daily routines more manageable.
What is known as the 3rd level of severity is when the child or individual requires “ very substantial” support throughout the day for the simpler daily tasks. Regarding the social communication criteria, this individual is known to be extremely limited verbally and non-verbally, doesn’t seek out interactions, and rarely respond when others interact with them.
3rd level individuals on the spectrum are immensely inflexible so much to the point that it impacts all other areas of their life. In situations like this, having a consistent and safe outlet for sensory behaviors can be especially important. Some families use tools like durable sensory chews to help reduce stress and provide a predictable coping mechanism. At this level, these behaviors can be so strong that they may interfere with tasks in any environment, and it can also be very distressing when moving from one activity to another. When helping your loved one with 3rd level severity of autism, it’s essential to move slowly and consistently while observing how they respond to each new element throughout the day.
Individuals who inhabit level 2 severity of autism are classified as requiring “substantial” support. 2nd level individuals may be able to say words and basic sentences but social impairments are still apparent. While they may initiate social interaction at times, it’s usually very limited. Responses to people interacting with them are typically reduced or abnormal, or limited to very narrow specific interests.
While individuals on the autism spectrum along level 2 are usually inflexible as far as changes go, at times, they may be able to cope with some change but will usually increase stress levels. For children at this level, providing structured routines along with appropriate sensory tools can help ease transitions and reduce frustration. While they’re more likely to transition between activities than those at level 3, these changes can still be distressing and noticeable to others.
Individuals with level 1 severity of autism simply require support. Their social communication causes noticeable impairments unless support’s in place. While they’re able to speak in full sentences, social interactions are still affected. Even at this level, some children benefit from subtle sensory supports that help with focus and self-regulation throughout the day. This results in atypical or unsuccessful responses when others attempt to socially interact; there’s no backward-forwards flow of conversation.
Regarding repetitive and/or restricted behaviors, autistic individuals classified in level 1 typically won’t function in one or more environments due to the inflexibility of behaviors. Also, while they’re more likely to transition between tasks than other levels, it can still be difficult to manage. Notably, there’s also lack in a level 1’s ability to plan and organize themselves, oftentimes requiring support for such help.
Autism spectrum disorder affects different people in different ways. Every person with autism is different, and there can be variations in the level of each functional impairment in the same person. In addition, among individuals diagnosed with the same level of autism, some dysfunctions might be more prominent in some people than in others. The functioning level assigned to a child or adult serves as a guide for what support he or she needs to achieve the best functional outcome by helping you in assessing the strengths and weaknesses.
Supporting Your Child’s Sensory Needs at Every Level
No matter where your child falls on the autism spectrum, meeting their sensory needs plays a key role in their daily comfort and success. For children who seek oral input, having a safe and appropriate chew can help reduce stress, improve focus, and provide a consistent outlet for those needs.
Choosing the right chew depends on your child’s chewing strength and preferences, and finding the right match can make a noticeable difference in how well it works.
Explore our super durable chews for tough chewers or browse softer options designed for light chewing.
Every child is different, which is why choosing the right sensory tool matters. The right chew can help reduce biting, improve focus, and give your child a safe outlet for their needs.
👉 Start here: [Shop Sensory Chews]
👉 Not sure what to choose? Find your child’s perfect match →[Find Your Chew Factor]
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Disclaimer: Every child is different, and not every strategy will work for every situation. It may take some trial and error to find the right solution. This blog is intended to inform and support, while offering chew tools that may help.