5 questions about Sensory Processing #behaviourchat

I hosted #behaviourchat in November. In my role as behaviour lead at my school I am increasingly interested in the impact of sensory processing on learning, engagement and what we perceive as challenging behaviour. I wanted to find out more so asked some questions of the twitterverse. This is a breakdown of some of the things I was able to take away from the chat.

Lets start with an official definition from STAR “Sensory processing (originally called “sensory integration dysfunction” or SID) refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses.” and so when you have an issue with processing these inputs it may become overwhelming.

Sensory Spectacle add “Each of the 7 senses may be over (hyper) or under (hypo) responsive and may fluctuate and mix throughout a day. “

Jules Darby shared this Youtube clip explaining SPD from a child’s perspective.

Observation and knowing the child was the only suggestion here. I have been looking around and found the sensory profile from Pearson. I would be interested to hear what others use.

There are lots of simple adjustments that we can all make that will make our rooms more accessible, and ensure learning can take place. A lamp using LED bulbs instead of fluorescent lighting. Reducing the amount of displays. turning the projector or fans off. Here is a great resource that I found after the chat. Jeevan recommended these resources.Again from a STAR publication.

A3- Have various space zones which are specific to our Sensory senses. Also a "workshop zone" so pupils can combine zones #behaviourchat

— Mr C – Evolve (@JeevanSChagger) November 21, 2016

My current bedtime reading is “The out-of-Sync” child an excellent book our SaLT suggested I read.

Sensory Spectacle recommended Rachel Schneider. and Joanna Grace in turn recommended their products (these are not paid links!)

A4 #behaviourchat experience @SensorySp 's installations.

— Joanna Grace (@jo3grace) November 22, 2016

A4 the sensory spectrum has some good resources and links. #behaviourchat https://t.co/xRyafEd5nO pic.twitter.com/uZiqnYyLyg

— Joe W (@jw_teach) November 21, 2016

I recommended reading or watching any thing by Paul Issacs, a very good speaker. Book Him!!