Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

School and Classroom Accommodations for Sensory Differences

Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful.

School and Classroom Accommodations for Sensory Differences

Jeanette Loftus

Sensory processing disorder affects how we process the sensory input around us in our environment. It can be so overwhelming for a child who struggles with sensory processing differences to go to school. This is why it is so important for teachers and parents to implement school and classroom accommodations.

These classroom and school accommodations create a supportive learning environment where neurodivergent children can be successful. This is a helpful guide covering different types of accommodations that can be made in a school settings or for their classroom to support their sensory differences.

Creating a sensory friendly work environment is so important for children who have sensory differences. There are many different desk accommodations that could help a child while they are attending school. Some children will do better when they are offered flexible seating options such as bean bag chairs, stools, yoga balls or stand-up desks.

Many children who struggle with sensory differences could be sensitive to noises and sounds and may require noise-cancelling headphones in their class to reduce sensory auditory input in their classrooms. Sensory fidgets can provide sensory input for children while in their classroom that are not disruptive. Fidgets will help them stay focused and regulated throughout the day.

Here is a helpful list of some accommodations that could help children who have sensory differences while they are at their desk during the day at school.

Writing can be very challenging for children who struggle with sensory differences and dysgraphia. There are a lot of different writing accommodations that teachers and parents can include in a child's school day to help them improve their writing skills or allowing children to use technology to type their assignments and class notes.

Providing a child with different writing tools can be very beneficial for them. Using different writing tools can help a child work on their writing skills. Extended times given to a child to complete their writing assignments can ease their anxiety and improve their writing skills.

Reading can be very challenging for children who have sensory differences. There are some accommodations for teachers and parents to consider. Providing a designated quiet area or corner to read can cut down on distractions.

Allowing children to use audiobooks can be very beneficial. Offering smaller reading groups in the classroom can provide a quiet setting and be beneficial for individualized support.

There are many ways we can support children with sensory processing disorder when they are struggling with their homework. They need clear written or visual instructions with a structured homework schedule. Establishing a consistent homework routine at home can help children manage their time effectively and complete their homework.

Breaking down homework tasks into smaller tasks can be very helpful. Dividing a child's assignments into smaller, manageable parts can reduce overwhelm and anxiety. Using checklists can help children see their progress, ease anxieties and feel more organized.

Transitions between activities at school can be particularly challenging for children who have sensory difficulties. There are several ways to make transitions at school easier for children to cope.

Using visual timers can provide clear indications of how much time is left before a transition happens. Remind children before transitioning to a new activity can help prepare them for what is next. Gradually transitioning can be very beneficial for children and giving them extra time to transition. This can ease their anxieties.

Some children may have a preferred route to take within the school. Let students choose the path they take during their transitions, this can avoid overstimulating spaces and let them go the way they feel more comfortable.

Recess is very important for all students but it can be overwhelming for children who have sensory processing disorder. There are a lot of different accommodations that teachers can consider.

There should be quiet zones that are designated sensory friendly spaces for children who need a sensory break during recess. Schools should consider having a sensory friendly outdoor space too for children to explore their senses and fill their sensory diet while attending school.

Some children prefer to have structured activities and games because they crave sensory input and need movement breaks.

Providing a schools buddy system can be very helpful for children. Pairing children with their peers can encourage an inclusive environment that supports social interactions at school.

Including sensory movement breaks during the day at school can really benefit children with sensory difficulties. Scheduled sensory breaks throughout the day so children can stretch and move. Providing sensory calming activities can teach children different calming strategies such as deep breathing or mindfulness.

Children need movement in their daily schedule to be successful. Setting up different movement stations within the classroom like yoga mats for yoga or yoga balls to sit on can really help children focus and concentrate on school work.

Creating a sensory friendly school can support all children, including children who have sensory differences. Sensory success while at school means having an inclusive environment where all children feel supported.

All teachers, staff and peers should be provided with training about sensory differences to encourage understanding and compassion. Children need positive reinforcement and recognizing their small achievements can encourage and motivate a child to engage more while they are at school.

There should be collaborative planning that involves parents, teachers and the child's occupational therapist to develop a plan that is tailored to each child's needs. Having a flexible curriculum with adapted lesson plans can benefit all children.

It is important to include sensory strategies in a child's school day such as desk, writing, recess, reading and homework throughout the day.

Teachers can make a big difference in the life of a child with sensory differences while they attend school. Between teachers, parents and their therapists, students can feel supported and empowered while being at school. School can be a comfortable and inclusive environment for all children.