Sensory processing disorder (SPD) affects how the brain processes sensory information, which can lead to significant challenges in educational settings.
While awareness of this condition is growing, many educators and parents remain unsure about how to support students with SPD. This article explores the nature of SPD, its impact on students, and practical ways to create a supportive classroom environment.
What is SPD?
SPD is a condition where the brain struggles to process sensory input from the environment. Students with SPD can experience hypersensitivity (over-response) or hyposensitivity (under-response) to sensory stimuli, affecting one or more senses, including sight, sound, touch, taste, or smell. This can lead to discomfort, behavioural issues, and learning challenges in the classroom.
Key features of SPD
Students with SPD can exhibit various behaviours depending on their sensory sensitivities and coping mechanisms. Here are the key features of SPD:
- Hypersensitivity: Students with hypersensitivity might be overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. This can lead to stress, anxiety, or meltdowns in response to sensory overload. A student might wear ear defenders to reduce noise or avoid touching certain fabrics.
- Hyposensitivity: Students with hyposensitivity may seek intense sensory experiences to feel balanced. They might engage in repetitive behaviours like spinning, bouncing, or making loud noises.
- Sensory-seeking behaviour: Those with SPD might actively seek sensory stimulation. For instance, a student might constantly move, fidget, or touch objects to satisfy their sensory needs.
- Difficulty with transitions: Changes in routine or unexpected events can be challenging for students with SPD. They may require extra time and support to adapt to new environments or activities.
- Social challenges: SPD can affect a student's ability to engage with peers, leading to social isolation or difficulties in forming relationships.
How SPD impacts students
Students with SPD can face a variety of challenges in the school environment, affecting their academic performance and social interactions.
- Difficulty focusing: Sensory overload can make it hard for students to concentrate on tasks, leading to decreased productivity and engagement in the classroom. A teacher at a primary school told me: "I noticed that one of my students with SPD would often stare off into space during lessons – it turned out that the classroom's fluorescent lights were too bright for him."
- Behavioural issues: Due to sensory overload, students with SPD might experience meltdowns, aggressive behaviour, or withdrawal. These reactions are often misunderstood as defiance or a lack of discipline.
- Challenges with classroom activities: Routine activities like writing, reading, or even sitting still can be challenging for students with SPD. This can lead to frustration and resistance to school work.
- Social difficulties: Students with SPD might have trouble interacting with peers, leading to social isolation and a lack of friendships. One student with SPD shared: "I always felt like I didn't fit in. The noise in the lunch hall was too much, so I usually ate alone in a quiet corner."
In-school support strategies for SPD
Creating a supportive environment for students with SPD requires flexibility, empathy, and a willingness to adapt. Here are some effective strategies for educators:
- Sensory-friendly classroom design: Reduce sensory overload by minimising bright lights, loud noises, and strong odours. Consider using soft lighting, noise-reducing headphones, or white noise machines. One teacher told me: "We switched to dimmer lighting and added acoustic panels to reduce noise, and it made a huge difference for our students with SPD."
- Flexible seating options: Allow students to choose where they sit or provide alternative seating options like stability balls, rocking chairs, or standing desks. This flexibility can help students find comfort and focus.
- Sensory breaks: Incorporate regular sensory breaks into the school day. These breaks can include quiet time, sensory activities, or outdoor play. One teacher explained: "We have a sensory room where students can go when they need a break. It has calming lights, soft cushions, and fidget toys."
- Fidget tools: Provide discreet fidget toys to help students manage sensory input without causing distractions in class. Fidget spinners, stress balls, and textured items can be effective tools.
- Individualised learning plans: Tailor learning activities to each student's sensory needs. This might involve using visual aids, providing noise-cancelling headphones, or allowing students to complete tasks in smaller chunks. Collaboration with occupational therapists can be helpful in creating personalised plans.
- Communication with parents: Maintain open communication with parents to understand a student's specific sensory triggers and what kind of effective strategies are used at home. Consistency between home and school can be beneficial.
- Sensory diets: Work with occupational therapists to create a sensory diet for students with SPD. This involves a structured set of sensory activities that help students stay regulated throughout the day.
- Behavioural support: Use positive reinforcement and low-arousal approaches to manage behavioural issues related to sensory overload. Focus on de-escalation techniques and avoid punitive measures.
- Outdoor/playground adaptations: Create a sensory-friendly outdoor environment. This could include quieter zones with limited noise and activity, sensory paths with different textures, and equipment designed for low-arousal play or socialising. Providing options for both high-energy and low-energy activities can cater to various sensory needs. One teacher told me: "We added a sensory garden to our playground, which has been a calming space for students with SPD."
- Supporting social interactions: Help students with SPD build social skills and form connections with peers. This could involve structured groups, buddy systems, or social skills training sessions. Offering guidance during group activities and creating safe spaces for social interaction can foster a more inclusive environment.
- Education and awareness: Educate teachers and peers about SPD to foster understanding and empathy. This can lead to a more inclusive classroom environment where students with SPD (and their families) feel valued and accepted.
- Collaboration with therapists: Collaborate with occupational therapists or other specialists to develop personalised strategies for each student with SPD.
Final thoughts
By approaching each student with compassion, adapting the classroom to meet sensory needs, and promoting a culture of understanding, educators can empower students with SPD to thrive academically and socially. This inclusivity benefits not only those with SPD but the entire school community, promoting a sense of belonging and respect for individual differences.
- Dr Pooky Knightsmith is a passionate ambassador for mental health, wellbeing and PSHE. Her work is backed up both by a PhD in child and adolescent mental health and her own lived experience of PTSD, anorexia, self-harm, anxiety and depression. Follow her on X @PookyH and visit www.pookyknightsmith.com. Find her previous articles and podcast/webinar appearances for Headteacher Update via www.headteacher-update.com/authors/dr-pooky-knightsmith