TWG EKS 15: Nurturing Sensory Wellness: Strategies to Support Children's Regulation and Learning with Heather Hodgins-Chan

The Writing Glitch: Hack Dysgraphia No Pencil Required

Welcome to today’s interview on the Emotional Kids Summit.

One of the key takeaways from the conversation between Cheri and Heather is the importance of providing sensory strategies and sensory input to prevent meltdowns and promote learning. Children with sensory processing challenges often struggle to process the sensory information around them, such as bright lights, sounds, and physical contact. By incorporating body breaks and activities that provide proprioceptive input, like animal walks, jumping jacks, or wall push-ups, teachers can help children regulate their sensory systems and improve their attention and engagement in the classroom.

Heather also emphasizes the significance of understanding trauma and its impact on a child's nervous system and learning. Children who have experienced trauma may have difficulties with emotional regulation and establishing relationships, especially after events like the pandemic or natural disasters. Teachers and educators are encouraged to gather information about a child's history, communicate with parents, and create a safe and supportive learning environment.

Mindfulness and movement activities are highlighted as effective strategies to promote regulation and attention in the classroom. Engaging the whole classroom in mindful eating, yoga, or deep-pressure activities can help children become more aware of their bodies and emotions. Additionally, incorporating sensory-based interventions and considering visual perception and eye tracking can be essential for identifying and addressing potential challenges that affect a child's learning and attention.

Ultimately, the conversation underscores the importance of co-regulation, where teachers and students engage in mindfulness activities together. By focusing on the student's sensory needs, creating a supportive environment, and providing opportunities for movement and mindfulness, teachers can help children regulate their nervous systems, improve attention, and enhance their overall learning experience.

If you’d like to see the interview on video, join the Companion Course to this series. Here is the link.

Inside the Companion Course, we are offering amazing bonus materials. Some of these resources include:

• Complimentary call with Cheri
• A chance to join the Math DYSConnected book launch team
• Access to The Purple X mini-course
• Complimentary ticket to the Introduction to Dysgraphia Webinar
• Complimentary ticket to Small Group Math Interventions
• Complimentary ticket to Saturday Math
• Two-part on-demand webinar on dysgraphia and dyscalculia with the option to receive CEUs
• Free downloadable resources

Plus, the resources that Ms. Hodgins-Chan shared today in this episode.

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