little things go a long way...

Last week while observing a classroom, I was trying to pinpoint what was feeling so right about what I was experiencing: I realized that everywhere I looked or listened, there were supports available for sensory regulation for all students AND staff (picture: rocking chairs, noisebusting headphones, water bottles, a soft corner, table and natural lighting, a 'singing bowl' to signify transitions, and more). 

So this is just a quick shout out note of appreciation for what I saw; it would have been one thing to see these supports available, but that the staff modeled (and really utilized) the benefits of using the supports  and the students were able to access them at any time was evident in the flow of the class. 

Sensory Integration Tools for Meltdown Management

Happy New Year everyone!  I came across this blog entry over the winter break and wanted to share it with you.  It's from the Friendship Circle Blog which provides special needs resources for parents and educators.  In this entry, Karen does a great job of providing some practical tools and strategies that can be utilized to work through and divert sensory meltdowns.  I particularly liked her ideas about Sensory Integration Toolkits, she offers toolkit ideas for when away from home, at home, and at playdates and in school.  Lots of practical ideas and strategies here, check them out!