Understanding the Cycle of Challenging Behaviour: A Guide for Teachers As teachers, we often encounter a range of behaviours in our classrooms, some of which can be challenging and disruptive. Understanding the cycle of challenging behaviour is crucial in managing these behaviours effectively and providing supportive learning environments for all students. This understanding can help … Read more
Removing Barriers to Inclusion: Making Our Schools More Inclusive As educational leaders, inclusion should be our top priority. However, multiple systemic obstacles still prevent equitable learning environments for all. In this article, I will analyse predominant barriers to inclusion, propose evidence-based solutions, and address common questions around transforming our schools into communities where every child … Read more
What is Attention Autism? Attention Autism is an intervention approach designed by speech-language pathologist Gina Davies to support the development of communication, social, and cognitive skills in children with autism (ASD). The program uses a progression of visually based and highly motivating activities to teach children how to pay attention, imitate, and engage socially. The … Read more
The Role of an SEN TA in the U.K. Education System Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants (SEN TAs), also known as Special Needs Assistants or Learning Support Assistants, play a crucial role in the U.K. education system. They provide support to children with a range of needs, ensuring that all students can access education in … Read more
Table of Contents Understanding Low Arousal Environments Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to define what we mean by a “low arousal environment.” At its core, such an environment minimises sensory, cognitive, and emotional overstimulation. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, including controlling physical elements like light and sound, managing … Read more
What is Dyspraxia? Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a neurological condition that affects physical coordination and can impact a child’s fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and planning abilities. These challenges can affect a child’s performance and wellbeing in various areas, including academic achievement, social interaction, and daily life skills. Children … Read more
Introduction to Finger Gym Teaching students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) requires a unique set of skills, patience, and a toolbox of innovative teaching strategies. One of the strategies that has gained popularity in recent years is ‘Finger Gym’. This article explores the concept of Finger Gym, what it is, how it can be incorporated … Read more
Hands-On Teaching Activities When You Need A Calm Classroom Calming Activities for the Classroom: The After-Lunch Energy Slump After a long morning afternoons can be challenging for young children and those with special needs. I distinctly remember the stress of trying to stay awake in maths after lunch. Tiredness and stress have built up, technically … Read more
Winter Wonderland – Christmas Sensory Song For information about delivering sensory stories please see our main Free Sensory Story page. This is not technically a Sensory Story but we will be using the lyrics to the song “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” and linking each line with a sensory resource or action. You will know … Read more
Working Effectively with Teaching Assistants in Inclusive Classrooms As the UK’s educational framework increasingly recognises the importance of personalised and inclusive learning, the role of Teaching Assistants (TAs) has become increasingly important. In the drive to provide a richer learning experience, the effective deployment of TAs can indeed make a significant difference.The EEF’s SEND Guidance … Read more
Self-Advocacy Through Communicating Needs. Children can experience social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) issues at any stage of development. These challenges can stem from specific life events, like bereavement, trauma, illness, family stresses, or bullying. In other cases, the underlying causes may relate to longer-term factors such as learning difficulties, challenges with social skills, prolonged … Read more
Effective SENCO: Impact on School Culture Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) play a critical role in ensuring that every student in their school receives the support they need to thrive. In order to be effective, SENCOs must not only be experts in their field, but also have the ability to influence and drive change across … Read more
Things To Know About the Role of a SENCO What is a SENCO? A SENCo, which stands for Special Educational Needs Coordinator, is the key leader in supporting students with special educational needs and/or disabilities at their primary or secondary school. The SENCo works to ensure these students receive the right teaching and learning support … Read more
Understanding The Importance of a Planned Sensory Curriculum Sensory learning is a popular, creative and innovative approach to education that encourages children to explore the world around them and experience things firsthand. By engaging their senses, children can interact with new environments, materials, and textures that enrich their understanding of the world. The benefits of … Read more
Why Tactile Sensory Activities Matter Tactile sensory input is one of the first senses babies experience. As children grow, hands-on tactile sensory activities facilitate brain development as new neural pathways form. Tactile play builds nerve connections between the brain and the rest of the body. These pathways transmit sensory information that helps children understand and … Read more
Tips for Supporting Your Child After a Diagnosis We have three children with different diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis for your child can feel overwhelming at first. Whether it’s autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or another neurodiversity, the news brings many emotions. This article covers key steps to support your child after receiving a diagnosis. Seek … Read more
How to Care for Yourself While Caring for Your SEN Child: Preventing Parental Burnout Special Needs Parental burnout is reaching alarming levels among parents of children with SEN in the UK. With cuts to services, rising mortgage rates and inflation, families are under more pressure than ever. The daily struggles of raising a child with … Read more
Effective Interventions for Pupils with SEN: What Does the Evidence Say? Providing effective support and high quality interventions for pupils with SEN (special educational needs and disabilities) can be challenging. However, research shows that evidence-based interventions tailored to pupils’ specific needs and implemented with fidelity can narrow the achievement gap. The following principles and interventions represent … Read more
What is Retrieval Practice? Retrieval practice, or recalling what you have learned, can be a powerful learning strategy for students with special educational needs. Retrieval practice is a learning strategy in which a person actively attempts to recall information that they have previously studied from memory. This is effective because it helps to strengthen the … Read more
Understanding the Causes: Why Do Children Ask Repetitive Questions? Repetitive questioning is a common challenge faced by many parents of children. It can be common in autistic children or those with communication difficulties. While frustrating for the adult, it is likely more frustrating and distressing for the child. It’s important to understand the potential reasons … Read more
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