Traveling Sensory Classroom A Simulation Experience presented by: Amy J. Helmuth Family Support Partner Supervisor Kalamazoo Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Latrieva Boston Family Services Manager ASK Family Services

3 PARTS Education Sensory Simulation Debriefing DISTURBING! EXAGGERATION! Debriefing

Our Goals 1. You will gain insight 2. You will see a child’s behavior as communication. 3. You will become open to new ideas. 4. You will think creatively when trying to help a child. Our Goals

Sensory Processing Disorder Processing = Brain Sensory Processing Disorder

3 Types of SPD 1. Sensory Modulation Dysfunction 2. Sensory Discrimination 3. Postural Disorder 3 Types of SPD

FAR Senses

Proprioceptor Interoception Vestibular Hidden Senses

EVERYONE! WHO??

EVERYWHERE! WHERE??

Possible Responses Children Ignore discomfort Become irritable Eat or talk excessively Experience motion sickness Become anxious Tantrum Seeking Sensory Possible Responses

Coping Tools Commonly Used Sunglasses Earplugs Gum Doodling Hiding Moving Crying Coping Tools

Is Behavior Sensory Related???

Everyone manages sensory challenges. Some manage better than others Everyone manages sensory challenges. Some manage better than others. Children need to be taught appropriate coping skills. If we do not understand their level of discomfort, we cannot adequately help them.