Creating a Sensory-Friendly Classroom: Simple Steps for Big Impact
Updated by Rivkie Berger, OTR on 09/19/2024.
3 min read
There are many things to consider when making your classroom sensory-friendly. Keep all the senses in mind– touch, sight, hearing, taste, smell, vestibular awareness (where you are in space) and proprioception (body awareness). When you take each of these into account, you are better able to identify tools that will be most effective. In addition to the tools you can furnish the space with, it’s important to incorporate a sensory diet.
Why a Sensory Diet Matters
Integrating a sensory diet in your classroom can lead to better productivity, longer attention spans and overall happier children. By taking the time to understand and meet the sensory needs of your students, you can foster a greater sense of security and reassurance in the classroom. This can cause students to feel more comfortable in school so that they can focus their attention on learning.
What to Include in a Sensory Classroom
The aim is to help students filter out extraneous sensory information that can often overload their nervous system. Here are some of our occupational therapists’ top sensory categories to incorporate into your sensory-friendly classroom.
1. Movement Breaks
Providing tools for movement and heavy work can keep kids focused by increasing their heart rate and blood flow to the brain. Designate a corner of the classroom for individual students to jump on a Bounce Board or rock on a Wooden Rocker Board. You can also play group games for quick movement breaks. Our Spot Markers and Sensory Pathway Decals are fun tools to guide students through an exercise routine.
2. Fidget Tools
Keep plenty of fidgets around for busy fingers. Occupying students’ hands can free their minds to concentrate on the task at hand. Sensory Gel Shapes provide calming visual input, while squeezing and stretching putty is ideal for strengthening hand muscles. Choose from a variety of foot fidgets if kids need to tap and kick their feet.
3. Soothing Sights, Sounds and Smells
Lights, noises and smells that are too bright, too loud or too strong can trigger a sensitive child. Install Fluorescent Light Coversto dim harsh lighting. Wall panels, likeFelt Right TilesorWall Mats,can reduce sound pollution in the room. Make sure you keep several pairs ofheadphonesaccessible so that students can use them as needed. A bad or overwhelming odor can reduce concentration, while pleasant scents can energize and increase focus. Set up an aromatherapy station withScented Putties and let students explore how each scent makes them feel.
4. Sensory Seating
Typical chairs can be good for short periods of time, but offering alternative seating allows kids more freedom to move around and change position. This activates their concentration. By incorporating floor chairs,bean bag chairs,andcushions you may see an increase in in-seat behavior and task completion!
5. Pressure Points
Proprioceptive input provides a workout to the joints and muscles. You don’t need a large space to give kids this type of sensory input. Keep a massage roller,body sock,orSensaSoft™ Compression Canoe in your classroom to help kids clear their brain and refocus.
By keeping sensory tools available and your kids' sensory diet in mind, you are sure to create a positive and productive learning environment. This sensory focus helps students feel comfortable and secure, so that they can turn their attention to learning. As the year progresses and needs might change, adjust the types of sensory tools you have available.
Explore our free classroom resources and printables for more ideas to bring to your classroom.
Comments
Will do! Thank you Kathy!!
Send your sensory diet package to as many school districts as possible.
We do not have enough otr’s to cover all the bases.
i only do active treatment x2 per week.
The teachers know that sensory diets. work.
kathy, o.t.
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