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Today’s episode is all about WHY we love sensory strategies for EVERY classroom!
The idea is to create an inclusive, sensory friendly classroom that all students can benefit from, while also providing individualized sensory strategies to the students who need a little bit more.
Make sure you stay til the end of today’s episode where we answer a listener question!
Be sure to check out all of the links below for additional resources!
All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram
Ep. 9: Starting School with a Sensory Kiddo
Ep. 57: IEPs and Advocating for Your Child’s Education
Ep. 58: Back to School Tips for Success
Ep. 65: Multi-Sensory Processing 101
Ep. 174: Brainstorming Session with a School Based OT
YouTube: 5 Easy Steps to Build a Sensory Corner
YouTube: 5 Multi-Sensory Activities
YouTube: 8 Sensory Breaks for the Classroom
YouTube: Primitive Reflexes in the Classroom
YouTube: A Sensory Friendly Classroom
Creating a classroom that supports every student’s sensory needs isn't just for those with IEPs or 504 plans—it benefitseveryone. In this post, we’ll walk you through our five favorite strategies for improving classroom focus and behavior, based on evidence-based occupational therapy practices and years of hands-on experience.
Sensory breaks (sometimes called brain breaks) are short, structured activities designed to regulate the nervous system. Unlike a sensory diet, which is individualized, sensory breaks can be universal and proactive.
When To Use Them:
At the beginning of the day.
Before and after transitions (like lunch and recess).
After long periods of sitting or focused work.
Examples Of Sensory Breaks:
Jumping jacks, cross crawls, or windmills.
Clapping patterns with a metronome.
Crunchy or chewy snacks.
Sipping through a straw.
OT Tip: Teachers benefit from these, too! Join your students in the break for a reset that works for everyone.
Having a dedicated sensory-friendly space in your classroom gives students a self-regulation tool they can use when overwhelmed.
Suggested Items:
Pop-up tents, beanbags, or Harkla Hug.
Weighted lap pads or stuffed animals.
Noise-canceling headphones.
Lava lamps or calm-down bottles.
Fidget tools and a visual timer.
Guidelines:
Teach students how and when to use the space.
Avoid using it as a reward or punishment.
Ensure all students have equal access.
Learning sticks better when it engages multiple senses. This is especially beneficial for students with diverse sensory needs.
Ideas For Multisensory Instruction:
Writing math problems in shaving cream.
Bouncing a ball while spelling words.
Singing songs to memorize concepts.
Stomping or clapping out syllables or math facts.
Why It Works:
Rhythm, movement, and tactile input boost memory and attention by engaging more areas of the brain.
Not all "behaviors" are behavioral. Sensory challenges often present as attention-seeking or defiance, but they may stem from overstimulation or unmet sensory needs.
Strategies For Differentiation:
Observe what happens after offering a sensory strategy.
Use tools like sensory profiles or simple journaling.
Consult with your school OT or COTA.
Mantra To Remember:Sensory impacts behavior.
Every child has a sensory system. Including sensory tools and strategies as part of your classroom culture promotes inclusivity and self-awareness.
Offer fidgets and movement opportunities to all.
Teach about all eight sensory systems (yes, 8!).
Normalize self-regulation discussions.
Model your own sensory strategies.
Dim lighting, fidget tools, and water with straws.
Chairs that allow movement (we love our spin chairs!).
Creating a sensory-friendly classroom isn’t just about decreasing meltdowns—it’s about increasingconnection,focus, andlearning. Small changes can lead to big transformations.
By integrating sensory strategies into your everyday classroom routines, you’re empowering students with the tools they need for emotional regulation, engagement, and academic success. And just as importantly, you're cultivating a learning environment where every child feels seen, supported, and capable.
BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.
Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.
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