How Challenges With Sensory Processing and Integration Impact Students’ Learning and What We Can Do About It

Sensory differences have a profound impact on learning. Colleen Whiting is our faculty specialist on school-based practice. Today, Carrie Schmitt and Colleen Whiting discuss an article highlighting a study aimed at capturing parent and teacher perspectives on how sensory differences affect learning and life at school. This conversation covers topics such as the current day impact of distance learning, sensory profiles mismatches, sense of agency, and what specific strategies work to support students with sensory differences. Parents and school-based therapists alike will benefit from this discussion. 

Resources Mentioned In this episode:​

• Bialer, D., & Miller, L.J. (2011). No longer A SECRET: Unique common strategies for children with sensory or motor challenges. Sensory World. 
• Jones, E.K., Hanley, M., & Riby, D.M. (2020). Distraction, distress and diversity: Exploring the impact of sensory processing differences on learning and school life for pupils with autism spectrum disorders. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 72, 101515.
• Miller-Kuhaneck, H. & Kelleher, J. (2018). The classroom sensory environment assessment as an educational tool for teachers. Journal of Occupational Therapy Schools & Early Intervention. 10.1080/19411243.2018.1432442.
• Miller, Lucy Jane, Anzalone, Marie E, Lane, Shelly J, Cermak, Sharon A, & Osten, Elizabeth T. (2007). Concept evolution in sensory integration: A proposed nosology for diagnosis. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 61(2), 135-140.
• Piller, A., & Pfeiffer, B. (2016). The sensory environment and participation of preschool children with autism Spectrum disorder. OTJR Occupation Participation Health, 36(3), 103–111.
• Short Child Occupational Profile (SCOPE): https://www.moho.uic.edu/productDetails.aspx?aid=9 

 

Find more about the school-based course Colleen Whiting designed at https://www.sensoryhealth.org/basic/school-based-intensive-for-occupational-therapy-practitioners