SI Resources October 2023: Sensory Inclusion

By Sensory Integration Education, 26 September 2024

Children playing with toys. Title reads SI Resources October 2023: Sensory Inclusion


This month we're focusing on sensory inclusion and looking at ways of exploring inclusive and neuro-affirmative perspectives in sensory services. 

In this month's SI Resources, we’ve curated a number of guides, articles, books and product ideas to help us understand more about the importance of sensory inclusion and adopting a neuro-affirmative approach to our practice.


What is Neuroaffirmative Practice – this article looks at what a neuroaffirmative approach is, outlining the benefits of using this in your practice

10 Ways Neurodivergent Thinking Can Help Us Adapt to an Unusual World - currently, we are living in unusual times and the way we adapt can help us to persevere and even grow within these times. This article shares 10 ways neurodiverse thinking can help us to adapt in this unpredictable world.

Teaching Neurodiversity to Primary School Pupils – this article by Alyssa Alcorn the lead researcher on the LEANS (Learnng About Neurodiversity at School) project, at University of Edinburgh, details a free LEANS resource pack for mainstream primary school teachers to use to help introduce neurodiversity concepts to classes of pupils aged 8-11 years. 

The Challenges Neurodivergent People Face Receiving Care – neurodivergent individuals still face a number of barriers in society. This blogpost by Healthwatch England discusses some of the challenges neurodivergent people face in accessing healthcare services for their needs.

10 Steps to Creating a Neurodiverse Inclusive Environment – this useful resource from the University of Bath includes a checklist and guide to creating a neurodiverse inclusive environment in 10 steps.

Early Learning Goals, Inclusion and Neurodiversity - this article shares inclusive activities linked to the communication early learning goals (ELGs) in Early Years Foundation Stage and how teachers can create an environment where every child feels valued and supported.

'There's No One Way to Be Autistic'- in this beautiful animation, British author Sara Gibbs shares how being diagnosed with autism as an adult changed her relationship with herself.


Books and Product Ideas

Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity

This educational book* is a great resource to help children learn more about neurodiversity and inclusion. The book takes a positive, friendly look at neurodiverse brains that debunks myths and stereotypes and the informative, inclusive text is accompanied by colourful modern illustrations.


Good Autism Practice for Teachers: Embracing Neurodiversity and Supporting Inclusion

This book* is an accessible guide for all trainees and teachers, providing practical, evidence-informed ways to support neurodivergent learners that will also benefit all pupils. It takes a close look at the theory around autism and encourages good inclusion practices to address the full range of needs in both mainstream primary and secondary classrooms.


The Adult Autism Assessment Handbook

This accessible and comprehensive handbook* covers recent research and best practice around adult autism assessment. The mixed team of neurotypical and neurodivergent authors describe lived experience of autistic adults, a how-to for conducting Neuro-Affirmative assessments and post-assessment support, alongside reflections from practice.


ODOXIA Calming Weighted Toy

This sensory soft toy* will provide emotional support and a sense of security for children and young people. The weighted toy provides deep pressure and sensory input which are calming and can help children focus and concentrate better in difficult situations.

Loop Ear Defenders

The Loop range of ear defenders are ideal for children and adults. Portable and easy to carry around, they shield small ears from big noises, helping to increase children's focus and concentration at school or at home and come with ear tips in sizes XXS-M.

Educational Insights Playfoam

Playfoam* helps to develop fine motor skills by providing opportunities for pinching, scooping, squeezing, sculpting, pressing, and rolling. The 8 fun colours have a bead-like texture that is also great for tactile sensory play. Playfoam can also be used as a reusable filler in classroom and home sensory play trays. 

*Affiliate link: SIE may earn a commission (at zero cost to you) when you purchase by clicking on an affiliate link.

NB: Sensory Integration Education is not responsible for the content on external websites. Sharing a resource does not imply endorsement by Sensory Integration Education.


 

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