OT Susanne Williams worked to guide teachers in Golden Hills School Division on how to meet the sensory needs of students in their classroom.
The following is a snapshot of what she presented to teachers in our district. Did you know that we have 8 sensory systems?
Some ideas for designing your own sensory space:
- Corner of the classroom where the lights are dimmed or a quiet area
- Know your students triggers or amount of sensory input they may require (see below)
- Try to support the child so that they can build awareness of what they should choose in order to regulate themselves
Bins in the sensory space could include:
- Fidget tools, sensory bags, sensory bottles, beads, fabric, slime, stress balls, fine motor activities, puzzles
- Wiggle seat, wobble rockers/stools, soft seating
- Weighted blanket or lap pad or hard cover books
- Visuals for regulation (grade level appropriate)
- Noise canceling headphones
Resource credits: Susanne Williams Down Syndrome Resource Foundation (sensory systems graphic)
