Sensory Inclusive Schools

The festive season is one of the most joyous (and busiest!) times of the year, with classrooms decorated, special assemblies planned, and students eagerly awaiting the holidays. However, the flurry of activities can be overwhelming for some children, particularly those with sensory processing differences. By incorporating sensory-friendly practices, schools can make this time enjoyable for all students—ensuring that no one feels excluded or overwhelmed. Here, Sensory Inclusive Schools offers guidance on creating sensory-safe, inclusive celebrations.

Supporting Sensory Processing Differences

Sensory processing differences (sometimes called sensory processing difficulties) refer to how the brain processes and integrates sensory information from the environment and our body. We all have unique sensory systems. When the environment or task doesn't fit our unique sensory processing style, it can make it difficult for us to participate in the activities we want or need to do. Understanding more about sensory processing allows school staff to develop tailored strategies and accommodations to support students with sensory needs - increasing engagement and participation in school. 

Why Sensory-Friendly Festivities Matter

A sensory-friendly approach isn’t just for those with identified sensory processing differences—it benefits all students. The excitement, noise, and changes in routine that accompany the festive season can impact children of all ages, from primary to secondary levels. By adopting sensory-friendly strategies, schools foster a supportive environment that encourages well-being and belonging for everyone.

Tips for Making Festive Events Inclusive

With thoughtful planning, schools can create an inclusive holiday environment that reduces sensory stressors and maximises enjoyment. Here are actionable steps to make festive celebrations more sensory-friendly and welcoming for everyone. Sensory training can prepare staff to implement these tips effectively:

1. Communicate Early with Parents and Students

Why: By encouraging parents to discuss any specific sensory needs with teachers before the holiday season, schools can proactively plan appropriate accommodations.

How: A quick conversation allows staff to understand individual needs better and may involve preparing social stories or visuals to help students anticipate changes to routines.

2. Establish Predictable Routines and Clear Expectations

Why: The festive season can disrupt routines, which can be distressing for some students.

How: Where possible, inform students about any schedule changes, such as rehearsals, special assemblies, or classroom parties. A visual timetable or daily reminders about these changes can help reduce anxiety by setting clear expectations.

3. Design Inclusive Nativity Plays and Carol Concerts

Why: Nativity plays, concerts and other performances can be wonderful but overstimulating. Bright lights, loud sounds, and crowded stages can be uncomfortable for some students. There’s also the pressure of coordinating movement in front of an audience.

How: Offer roles that suit each student’s comfort level, including non-speaking parts or backstage roles. Give children with motor coordination and planning difficulties enough opportunities to practise. For older students participating in carol concerts, allow them to wear discreet earplugs if they are sensitive to noise, and perhaps they would like to participate with actions or props instead of singing. Ensure stage lighting doesn’t bother any participants. 

4. Make Festive Visits Comfortable

Why: A visit from Father Christmas or Santa can be intimidating, especially if it feels compulsory. 

How: Allow students to choose whether to participate in these visits, ensuring they feel empowered to engage or not based on their comfort. With options like smaller group visits or watching from a distance, students can participate in a way that feels right for them.

5. Create Sensory-Safe, Decoration-Free Spaces Across the School

Why: Sensory overload from loud activities, bright lights, colourful decorations or strong scents can overwhelm some students.

How: Dedicate a quiet, sensory-safe area in each learning zone equipped with calming items like ear defenders, weighted lap pads, or calming activities. These spaces allow students to step away and self-regulate when needed.

6. Provide Alternative Festive Foods in Lunch Menus

Why: Holiday-themed foods can be exciting, but unfamiliar tastes and textures can be challenging.

How: Include familiar foods alongside festive options to ensure that all students have choices, allowing them to feel comfortable at mealtimes.

7. Make Christmas Crafts Sensory-Friendly

Why: Some students might find the textures of traditional craft materials uncomfortable, and others may struggle with manipulating small items, both issues potentially reducing their enjoyment and willingness to participate.

How: Offer mess-free craft options alongside traditional crafts, like using stickers, so all students have a sensory-safe choice that allows them to join in. Include ideas suitable for children who struggle with fine motor skills.

8. Flexible Dress-Up Days

Why: Christmas Jumper Day or non-uniform days can feel uncomfortable for students with sensory sensitivities or for those who prefer consistency.

How: Allow students to choose accommodations, like wearing a festive badge on their uniform, if they find a Christmas jumper uncomfortable. This lets them feel involved while respecting their sensory preferences.

9. Maintain Calming Activities Despite the Holiday Excitement

Why: As the term progresses, both students and staff can become tired, amplifying sensory sensitivities.

How: Continue to offer calming and energising activities, which help students manage their energy levels and avoid feeling overwhelmed. You can learn more about these regulating school-appropriate activities with a Sensory Inclusive Schools package of training and support. 

10. Cultivate Trusting Relationships with Staff and Peers

Why: Positive relationships can encourage students to express their needs and seek support when overwhelmed.

How: Foster a school culture of empathy and open communication where students feel safe and supported. When they trust staff and peers, they’re more likely to ask for breaks or accommodations.

Training and Awareness: The First Step to Sensory Inclusion

Raising awareness about sensory processing is key to fostering a supportive school environment. Through the Sensory Inclusive Schools package, your staff will gain the tools to recognise and address sensory needs in real time, creating inclusive, flexible responses during the festive season and beyond.

When schools are proactive in sensory accommodations, students not only feel safer—they are more engaged, focused, and likely to thrive during this joyful but challenging time of year. Book on to a Sensory Inclusive Schools package and join us in building a sensory-friendly, inclusive culture that uplifts every student.