My students need a variety of sensory tools including hand fidgets, weighted friends, a beanbag chair and safe items to chew on to be calm and focused for learning.
Keeping students focused and learning can be quite a challenge when their sensory systems are out of whack. Simple tools enhance the ability of children to focus, enabling students to grow as readers, writers, scientists and citizens.
Young elementary students who face exceptional challenges with social interactions and academic learning are the children I serve.
Their challenges include learning disabilities, autism, sensory integration problems and social/behavioral difficulties, as well as more severe impairments due to birth defects or health issues. Many of their families struggle with the challenges of poverty. Students attend a neighborhood elementary school with a high rate of students qualifying for free and reduced lunches.
My Project
Imagine the discomfort of a shirt collar soggy from being chewed. A chewy provides a safe and sanitary alternative while satisfying the need for oral stimulation. A weighted, stuffed "friend" on the lap or around the shoulders can provide a sense of security and remind a child where her body is in space. Hand fidgets provide work for busy fingers and help them "stay out of trouble". When sensory needs are met students are more able to focus on learning.
Supplies I've requested will provide interesting and effective ways for students to appropriately care for their sensory needs.
Fewer upsets or melt down and quicker recovery times increase their effective learning time. Classmates will also benefit with fewer disruptions.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Reeve and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.