Dealing with Sensory Processing in Primary Education (Part 5)

There are various ways to include sensory processing in school policy, says Monique. “First of all, you can ensure that books on this subject are available in the school library. In addition, you can promote professional development by providing training on the subject. If you do this training together as a team, it has another advantage: you start speaking the same language. Moreover, you can support one another afterward and appoint designated staff members so that the subject remains on the agenda.” Knowledge about sensory processing and the use of strategies ensures that students feel better and display less challenging behavior. This allows the teacher to focus on teaching rather than managing behavior.

Lesson Package

To involve students in this subject, SensoMatters has created a lesson package that can be used in class. “This allows teachers to initiate a conversation about it with their students, and students begin to realize that everyone processes sensory stimuli differently. Ideally, the students will then start helping one another. In any case, it can lead to greater understanding: students who know that another student rocks back and forth to stay alert will be less irritated by it. They understand that everyone needs something different.”

For teachers, there is a series of e-learning courses on the senses, sensory processing, and possible strategies. A free introduction is available for both the lesson package and the e-learning course.

BOX

Sensory Processing in School Policy

• Books on the subject in the school library.
• (In-company) training on the subject.
• SensoMatters lesson package on the subject.
• E-learning on the senses, sensory processing, and strategies.