Do You Know What Interoception Is?

Interoception is one of our senses, but it’s one that we rarely consider because it’s about the personal experience of our own bodies. Unlike our other senses—where we might all smell the same scent, see the same colors, or taste the same flavors—our sense of interoception is highly individualized. It’s the internal awareness of bodily signals, like hunger, fullness, the need to use the bathroom, or even emotions.

Do You Know What Interoception Is?

Historically, interoception hasn’t been widely discussed, likely because it’s not a shared experience. We can all see a bright red apple, but the way one person feels hunger might be completely different from someone else. Our bodies communicate with us constantly, but do we always know how to interpret what they’re saying?

A person feeling like their head is on fire!

Teaching Children to Recognize Their Own Signals

The latest research emphasizes the importance of teaching children to recognize and interpret their own bodily signals.

When adults describe their own experiences (“My stomach growls when I’m hungry”), children may assume their own bodies should feel the same way. But interoception is unique to each person, and children need guidance to explore what their own signals mean.

For example, an older child was always told that hunger felt like an “empty” stomach. Since she didn’t experience that sensation, she assumed she simply never felt hungry. However, through deeper exploration, she shared that she would get a “zigging” feeling sometimes. Once she was guided to reflect on it, she realized that was her body’s way of signaling hunger! This kind of discovery can be life-changing.

Interoception and Autism

Autistic individuals often face challenges in recognizing and interpreting bodily signals. One possible reason is heightened stress from living in a world designed for neurotypical people. When we experience stress, our bodies may mute or override internal signals to prioritize dealing with external stressors. If an autistic person is constantly navigating a world full of overwhelming stimuli, their ability to detect hunger, thirst, or the need to rest may be diminished.

What About You?

Do you recognize all your own bodily cues? Or is this concept new to you? Many of us go through life without realizing how unique and varied interoceptive signals can be. Let’s continue the conversation below—how do you experience interoception? Have you noticed differences in how your child or loved ones perceive their bodily signals? Share your thoughts!

Have you enjoyed reading our post: Do You Know What Interoception Is? We invite you to share your own experiences with us in the comments.

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And remember, early support isn’t just intervention—it’s prevention, empowerment, and connection. And it’s never too early to be curious, ask questions, and seek guidance. We’re here for you, every step of the way. 🍼👣✨

With heart,

The NewDay Child Coaching Team

Rachel Lynn: Communication and Swallowing/Feeding Guide 🩷

Amber Michelle: Physical Development Guide 💚

Amanda Rae: Fine Motor, Sensorimotor, Sensory/Feeding Guide 💛

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