Sensory Sound Box is a brilliant example of how mobile technology can be harnessed for inclusive, accessible play. Designed specifically with cause-and-effect learning in mind, the app is a staple for therapists and parents working with children who have intellectual disabilities, visual impairments, or motor control challenges. The simplicity of 'touch to create, lift to stop' provides immediate, satisfying feedback that is easy to grasp even for those with significant cognitive delays.
The variety of soundscapes is impressive—moving from the calming 'Doric Chant' to the high-energy 'Sore Tooth.' The app’s use of high-contrast visuals on a black background is perfect for children with CVI (Cortical Visual Impairment). What I find most valuable is the pitch modulation; the way the sound shifts from low to high as the finger moves up the screen provides a wonderful auditory-spatial lesson. It’s a focused, high-quality tool that prioritizes the user's sensory experience above all else.
Available on: iPhone, iPad, iPod
Version 5.0Sun Jul 21 2019
Extra scenes, two-finger support, updates for iOS 12 and new devices
Cause and Effect Sensory Sound Box is a developmental touch skills app. It was made for teenagers with complex learning needs including autism and visual impairment.
Sound Box is also a popular choice for parents of young toddlers without special needs who are beginning to explore touchscreen phones and tablets.
Each of the twenty-four scenes plays a continuous sound which changes it's pitch or intensity as one or two fingers move around the screen. Colourful abstract animations appropriate for any age-group complement the sounds closely.
Several colour palettes including high contrast variations for visually impaired users are provided. Background images can be customised and a live video feed from either camera can be shown behind the animations.
The app also supports touch-free play for cause and effect switch access, single tap and sound activation switch control using the microphone.
For more information on setting up your Bluetooth Switch or Keyboard see the information at the bottom of the Developer Website page.
Requires iOS 9.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.Popular app for developing cause and effect touch skills, simple musical sound play and sensory integration support.
Cause and Effect Sensory Sound Box is a developmental touch skills app. It was made for teenagers with complex learning needs including autism and visual impairment.
Sound Box is also a popular choice for parents of young toddlers without special needs who are beginning to explore touchscreen phones and tablets.
Each of the twenty-four scenes plays a continuous sound which changes it's pitch or intensity as one or two fingers move around the screen. Colourful abstract animations appropriate for any age-group complement the sounds closely.
Several colour palettes including high contrast variations for visually impaired users are provided. Background images can be customised and a live video feed from either camera can be shown behind the animations.
The app also supports touch-free play for cause and effect switch access, single tap and sound activation switch control using the microphone.
For more information on setting up your Bluetooth Switch or Keyboard see the information at the bottom of the Developer Website page.














Sensory Sound Box is a cause-and-effect app designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and visual impairments. Based on the same principles as the popular Sensory Light Box, this version focuses on auditory exploration. Users can choose from 12 diverse sound options, where touching the screen triggers sound and light, and moving the finger changes the pitch and characteristics of the audio. With nine customizable background colors and high-contrast graphics, it serves as a powerful tool for developing fine motor skills and spatial awareness.
12 unique interactive soundscapes
High-contrast visuals for CVI support
Touch-responsive pitch and tone modulation
9 customizable background colors
Simple, distraction-free interface
Select the 'Doric Chant' soundscape. Move your finger slowly from the bottom of the screen to the top to hear the notes rise in pitch. This helps children associate vertical movement with auditory changes.
Looking for the best autism apps for kids and adults? We compiled a list of the best free and paid communication, speech and games apps. Click here to read.
Autism Parenting Magazine - Mon Jan 29 2018
Access the settings to change the background color. For children with low vision, a high-contrast combination like Cyan on Black is often the most effective for maintaining focus and engagement.
No, Sensory Sound Box is designed for single-point contact to encourage finger isolation and pointing skills.