Sensory Processing of Time and Space in Autistic Children

<b>Background/Objectives</b>: Autism is characterized by atypical sensory processing, which affects spatial and temporal perception. Here, we explore sensory processing in children with autism, focusing on visuospatial and temporal tasks across visual and auditory modalities. <b>Methods</b>: Ninety-two children aged 4 to 6 participated, divided into three groups: autism (<i>n</i> = 32), neurotypical chronological age-matched controls (<i>n</i> = 28), and neurotypical developmental age-matched controls (<i>n</i> = 32). The autism group consisted of high-functioning children (26 boys). The participants completed computer-based tasks requiring spatial and temporal processing. Response accuracy and reaction times were recorded. <b>Results</b>: The autism group demonstrated higher accuracy in temporal tasks (visual and auditory modalities) and comparable accuracy in visuospatial modality, but slower response times in all tasks compared to both neurotypical controls. These results suggest a strategy that prioritizes accuracy over speed, while preserving spatial and temporal processing in autism. <b>Conclusions</b>: These findings suggest that temporal processing, rather than the sensory modality, drives decision-making strategies in children with autism. Our findings highlight the need for interventions aligned with autistic children's slower but accurate processing style to support social interaction and reduce stress. In a fast-paced digitalized world, autistic children might benefit from slower, balanced, and inclusive, evidence-based approaches that align with their cognitive rhythm and reduce overstimulation. By incorporating these unique strategies, targeted programs can enhance the quality of life and adaptive skills of children with autism, thereby fostering better integration into social and sensory-rich environments.