As educators, caregivers and ‘life coaches’ to young minds I hope we can all agree that every avenue should be explored when trying to help children achieve their full potential. Children with sensory processing disorders often shut down, become distracted or disruptive during certain activities. Considering the learner’s specific sensory needs and using some creativity, it is possible to provide the much needed sensory stimulation for the learner to reach a ‘ready to learn’ mental state.
Sensory stimulation is also beneficial for stimulating and developing the child’s brain. It is vital for all children to have sensory experience in their learning process therefor we should endeavour to sometimes shift our focus from formal learner (i.e. teaching the child) to having fun. It should also be mentioned that this ‘fun’ in learning should be carefully thought through and planned to provide targeted, specific sensory stimulation. The Home Teaching Kit is packed with ideas and planned multi-sensory stimulating activities while guiding the adult, carer or teacher towards a deeper understanding of holistic development.
Food for thought: Sensory cognitive development is the precursor to all learning. It is how the brain receives and interprets information from the eyes, ears, tactile senses, nose, mouth and whole body experiences.