Fun Flexibility and Sensational Serenity

Funded Aug 23, 2022

The fun flexibility and serene serenity project has been going strong in our class since day one. We utilize our flexible seating options, calming corner with sensory tools and reading materials every single day.

In our camping themed classroom, students love gathering in the meeting area on our super cozy rug (which is constantly remarked upon as "it looks like grass" and "it's like we're outside"). Having something soft to touch as we learn or read helps students maintain focus more easily. They also enjoy using the soft surface to practice tracing letters!

As several of our young learners find it challenging to identify and cope with strong emotions, having a safe calm space to go when overwhelmed, allows them more opportunities to practice self-regulation strategies. Thanks to our amazing tented calming corner, complete with a second cozy rug, variety of sensory tools like fidget spinners, squishy animals, pop its, gel tracing boards (and more), and reading materials to teach calming strategies, our students have an inviting space where they feel comfortable retreating to when needing to de-escalate or rest. They love laying on the rug and choosing a sensory material to use. One student has become quite successful in using the feelings flipbook to identify her emotions and choose an appropriate calming strategy (often a sensory tool) to match. Even our books like The Frustrated Ninja and What Should Danny Do have been big hits in helping to teach the children how to make more positive choices and better understand their own.

Lastly, our reading nook has become a fan favorite with students during independent

reading time. They love kicking their feet up to relax while reading a new book. Between the nook, soft rugs and bouncy ball seat, students can always find a comfortable spot to practice reading skills or learn something new (especially about animals)!

Your extreme generosity has made all the difference in helping my small class spend each and every day feeling safe, comfortable and empowered to learn and choose what will help make them most successful.”

With gratitude,

Mrs. Kerrigan