Resources for Sensory Sensitive Children

By: Carrie Portrie, M.Ed, EC-SEAT Project Coordinator

Our world is filled with screens, colors, lights, sounds, and textures. Children are being asked to do more, perform in certain ways and sit in classrooms where often they must sit still while dealing with an overload of sensory input from the environment. What can we do as educators to create more universally designed and inclusive spaces for young children with sensory sensitivities? Recently, I can across a website called A Sensory Life. The website is created by Angie Voss, OTR. I was drawn towards the site because I enjoy providing sensory activities for young children in the classroom. One particular part of her site I enjoyed was the SquishBox. Do you remember as a child climbing into cabinets, trying to fit into hampers, making forts or trying to fit in other cozy spaces? Well, the squish box is like that. You can make them with everyday items or inexpensive, easily found materials for children in your classroom or at home. They are often mobile and can be recreated in more than one space. These safe havens for young children to relax and receive input from densely packed spaces can help alleviate stress and anxiety.

Our reliance on high tech solutions may lead us away from the found materials in our homes and classrooms or other low-tech options. Recently, I read an article shared by the Council for Exceptional ChildrenTechnology and Media Division (TAMCEC) about the use of stability balls in place of traditional seats in a classroom. Stability balls are thought to increase attention and lower hyperactivity according to a study by the American Journal of Occupational Therapy. However, please use caution for using one solution. With every device, low or high tech, there are positives and negatives. The article, and study, reference using care and supervision among young children and stability balls because of developing posture and differing motor abilities. I have also seen teachers use tree stumps cut at a very slight angle as another seating alternative that may promote attention.

Adaptations ideas utilizing found items or inexpensive materials in the classroom or home can be invaluable. Tots n’ Tech provides a list of materials, training resources, and ideas for low tech AT in their August 2010 Newsletter. Some of the materials listed in this newsletter include: magnets, foam, stress balls, pool noodles, pom poms, poster board, and popsicle sticks. At the end of the newsletter there are directions for making a baking pan magnifier.

Children explore the world with their senses. Children with special needs, and without, benefit from a wide variety of experiences with their classmates and peers that incorporate diverse textures, tools, and environments. Children much like adults enjoy sitting on different types of chairs and cushions. Individuals find peace from over-stimulating environments using yoga, cozy clothing, warm liquids, and private spaces. When developing spaces in the classroom and at home for young children experiencing sensory integration difficulties, use the child’s individual preferences and needs to find the best solutions.

I hope these resources will lead you to other discoveries and promote communication regarding children’s sensory needs and experiences. What are some sensory adaptations, spaces and activities have you developed or utilized in your classroom or with young children in a home environment?