Sensory tools and resources play an integral role in helping children manage sensory input and keep their well-being in check. This is important for students with additional needs, autism, ADHD, and other sensory processing disorders.
Let's take a closer look at why these tools are so important in the classroom and how they can make a significant difference in students' educational experiences. In this blog update, we will be exploring:
- What is sensory processing?
- How do sensory resources and tools help in the classroom?
- What are the benefits of sensory resources?
- Our best selling sensory resources and tools for the classroom
What Is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing refers to how our nervous system receives and interprets sensory information from the environment. This includes sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell – our 5 senses.
For many people, processing this information is automatic. However, for those with sensory processing disorders, it can be a constant struggle to regulate their responses to sensory stimuli.
How Sensory Tools and Resources Help in the Classroom
Sensory tools and resources are designed to help students manage their sensory input effectively. By calming the mind, students with sensory processing disorders can learn and interact in the classroom better.
According to Autism Speaks, sensory resources can "help children relax, focus, and calm down." This is crucial for students who might otherwise be easily overwhelmed by their classroom environment.
Benefits of Sensory Tools and Resources in Classrooms
So, what are the benefits of sensory resources in the classroom? Let’s take a closer look at some of the best benefits.
Calming and Self-Regulation
Our sensory resources support students in managing their responses to environmental stimulation within the classroom. The Steam Roller Deluxe is a unique classroom sensory resource that enables students to self-regulate their proprioceptive feedback. This deep pressure therapy is well documented in the potential calming effect it can have and is an ideal way for students to manage their own stress and anxiety levels, making this steam roller an excellent classroom sensory resource.
Improving Focus and Attention
Sensory tools can also improve focus and attention in young students. For example, the Bubble Tube offers visual and auditory stimulation that has calming effects. This can be particularly beneficial during classroom activities or study time, helping students stay on task.
The bubble tube can be used to help support emotional regulation. The constant and predictable circulation of the bubbles can have a calming and focusing effect for students, and the repetition of the bubbles and the glass beads that float in the water can be utilised as a visual tracking activity, which is a fine motor skill.
Visual tracking is important because it allows children to follow a moving object, scan their environment for information, direct hand movements, and accurately shift their eye gaze from one thing to another.
Developing Motor Skills
Classroom sensory resources can also aid in developing motor skills in students. The use of balance boards in the classroom can be a fun way to develop a child’s coordination, a fundamental motor skill, by training the brain and body to work together more efficiently.
When on a balance board, students are forced to concentrate on making small adjustments by shifting weight to maintain balance and this in turn may assist postural stability, visual and vestibular inputs. A balance board also assists students with honing the skill of focusing on accomplishing one goal.
Encouraging Active Play and Exercise
Active play is crucial for physical health and development, especially in young children. Tools like the Therapy Peanut Ball encourage movement and exercise.
How to Add Sensory Tools into the Classroom
Integrating sensory tools into daily classroom routines can be seamless. Here are 3 easy ways you can add sensory resources to your classroom:
Create a Sensory Space
Designate a quiet area in your classroom where sensory tools are available. This space can serve as an area for students to calm down and recharge.
Use Tools During Transitions
Transitions can be particularly challenging for students with sensory processing issues. Using sensory resources in between classes can ease the shift from one activity to another.
Incorporate Into Learning Time
Sensory tools don’t have to be used only during moments of stress. Incorporate them into regular learning activities to make the experience enjoyable and beneficial.
Best Selling Sensory Products for the Classroom
We stock a wide range of effective sensory tools ready for any classroom. Let’s take a closer look at some of the bestselling sensory products at Bloom Classroom.
Therapeutic Sensory Calming Roller
The Therapeutic Sensory Calming Roller offers a unique deep pressure experience, providing calming sensory input that can help reduce anxiety and stress. Prices start at $745.45 + GST for the single roller, this classroom sensory tool is designed with adjustable rollers to suit different body sizes and increase or decrease the pressure for personal preferences.
Bubble Tube
The sensory Bubble Tube, starting at $440.91 Excl. GST for the 120cm Tube, is a versatile tool that combines visual and auditory stimuli to create a calming environment. It’s a sensory tool that uses lights and bubbles to create a calming visual stimulus. The soft bubbling sound and changing colours make it an ideal addition to a calm corner or sensory room.
Sensory Balance Board
For those looking to improve balance and coordination, the Sensory Balance Board is an ideal choice. Priced at just $85.00 Excl. GST, this wooden handmade board supports physical stability and body awareness. It's perfect for both home and school, making playtime fun and active.
Therapy Peanut Ball
The Therapy Peanut Ball is $56.36 Excl. GST and is a versatile tool for both exercise and play. Its peanut shape makes it more stable than a regular exercise ball, so it’s easier to maintain balance. It's great for building core strength, coordination, and balance, and it’s versatility and many uses make it a must-have for any sensory tool collection.
Shop For Sensory Resources Online
Sensory tools and resources are essential for many students dealing with sensory processing disorders. They help students calm down, focus better, and stay active, which boosts their overall well-being and learning.
Check out our online range of sensory resources and tools for the classroom at Bloom Classroom, your trusted Australian online store for classroom tools and supplies.
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