By Sensory Inclusive Schools, 15 July 2024
Don’t miss out on this free download which explains in clear language how to use sensory circuits in your school to help all students get ready for the school day by achieving their optimum level of alertness.
At Sensory Inclusive Schools, we understand the unique challenges and incredible rewards of supporting students with diverse sensory processing needs. Our mission is to provide comprehensive online training and support, helping school staff create inclusive, sensory-friendly learning environments and schedules where every student can thrive. This support is particularly beneficial for students with sensory processing challenges, ensuring they receive the necessary accommodations to succeed.
Setting up a sensory circuit is a simple and effective way of getting students focused and ready to learn. A sensory circuit includes a structured series of movement stations with circuit activities designed to provide sensory input and promote self-regulation in children. The activities are specifically tailored to address vestibular and proprioceptive needs, which are crucial for students with sensory processing difficulties.
It's important to remember that sensory circuits need tailoring to the individual learner's needs at that particular moment; for example, you may need to direct an individual to start with a different section of the circuit. You could also make the activities most helpful to that student available to them throughout the day.
This new free download from Sensory Inclusive Schools includes circuit ideas for use in the classroom and outdoors in the playground. We suggest the best times of day and for how long to use this sensory strategy.
Sensory circuits usually start with alerting activities to increase arousal levels, followed by organising and calming activities that can involve deep pressure and breathing exercises. These physical activities help regulate a child’s level of alertness through vestibular and proprioceptive input, preparing them for learning and participation in daily activities. They also aid in body awareness through proprioceptive input, which provides calming sensory input.
Sensory circuits are a great way to energise and settle all students. They are particularly beneficial for children with poor coordination and sensory processing differences. They are effective in a school environment, where sensory-based movement activities can prepare all students for learning.
While sensory circuits are a valuable tool, they are most effective when part of a broader, consistent approach to sensory regulation. Using a circuit in isolation, such as only at the start of the day, may help students temporarily, but it isn’t enough on its own. To truly support students’ self-regulation, sensory strategies need to be integrated throughout the school day, across different environments and routines - and tailored to the individual student. When sensory circuits are embedded within an overall plan of measures, they become part of a meaningful, inclusive strategy rather than a single isolated activity.
Download your free Sensory Circuits Guide now and join our mission to support every student's unique sensory profile.
This free download is just a sample of the resources included in every Sensory Inclusive Schools training and support packages. If you have any questions, contact us at [email protected].
