General Sensory Strategies for All

 teacher in front of a classroom full of pupils holding up their hands

School staff

When interacting with a student with sensory needs, consider your own communicative mannerisms.

A young girl sitting at a desk

Student

There are many ways in which students can be supported in managing their own sensory needs.

An empty classroom

Classroom

There are many ways in which adaptations can be made to a classroom to accommodate the diverse sensory needs of students.

Two young children in a playground

Playground/Outdoor area

The playground can be a difficult area for some students with autism, often causing anxiety.

Some young children eating a meal

Canteen/Dining hall

Students who are overresponsive to sensory input may dislike the canteen/dining hall due to the noise, smells, visual input and tactile input.

Children lined up, shown from the waist down

Assembly

Assembly can be difficult for students with sensory needs.

Two young people skateboarding

Activity

Participation in a range of activities is important for social, cognitive and physical development.

A young person sitting leaning against a tree

Transitions

Transitions between activities, rooms and classes are difficult for many students with autism and often increase anxiety.

A young person sitting on grass feeling left out

Transitioning to another school

Transitioning from one school to another can be difficult for a student with autism.

A young person on a computer

Personal Care

Dressing (An issue with dressing may be related to proprioceptive, tactile or fine motor difficulties).

Parent sending reluctant child onto bus

Travelling to and from school

Use visuals to prepare student for transition eg now and next, visual schedule (real life images are best).