Communication And Sensory Needs Presentation

Full Answer Section

Slide 2: What is Sensory Processing?

• Our brain receives information from our senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell, proprioception, and vestibular).
• Normally, the brain integrates and regulates this information seamlessly.
• In some individuals, including those with ASD, sensory processing can be atypical.

Slide 3: The 7 Sensory Systems

1. Vision: Light, color, movement, patterns.
2. Hearing: Sounds, volume, pitch, rhythm.
3. Touch: Textures, pressure, pain, temperature.
4. Taste: Flavors, textures, temperatures.
5. Smell: Odors, intensity, pleasantness.
6. Proprioception: Body awareness, movement, position.
7. Vestibular: Balance, movement, spatial awareness.

Slide 4: Sensory Under-responsiveness

• Students may appear insensitive to certain sensory stimuli.
• Examples: Not noticing loud noises, seeking out strong tactile sensations, preferring bright lights, not feeling pain as acutely.
• Potential impact: Difficulty focusing, seeking excessive stimulation, appearing restless or bored.

Slide 5: Sensory Over-responsiveness

• Students may experience intense or overwhelming reactions to certain sensory stimuli.
• Examples: Distraction by background noise, aversion to certain textures, strong dislike of specific smells, difficulty with crowds or bright lights.
• Potential impact: Anxiety, meltdowns, difficulty participating in activities, withdrawal.

Slide 6: Sensory Accommodations in the Classroom

• Visual: Fidget toys, visual schedules, dimmed lighting, alternative seating positions.
• Auditory: Earplugs, noise-cancelling headphones, designated quiet spaces, white noise machines.
• Tactile: Chewing gum, weighted vests, fidget tools, sensory balls, textured seating.
• Taste and Smell: Offering scent-free environments, providing preferred options at snack time.
• Proprioception: Movement breaks, fidget tools, proprioceptive activities like jumping or stretching.
• Vestibular: Swings, rocking chairs, balance activities, movement breaks.

Slide 7: Communication with Sensory Needs in Mind

• Be aware of potential sensory triggers in the classroom.
• Offer breaks and alternative activities as needed.
• Provide clear and concise instructions using multiple modalities (visual, auditory).
• Celebrate individual sensory preferences and provide supportive tools.

Slide 8: Conclusion

• Supporting students with sensory processing challenges is key to their success in the classroom.
• By understanding their individual needs and implementing appropriate accommodations, we can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
• Thank you for your dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of our students with ASD!

Sample Solution

Part 1: Understanding Sensory Processing in Students with ASD

Slide 1: Introduction

• Welcome and thank you for attending!
• Autism Awareness Day: Celebrating individual strengths and supporting diverse needs.
• Today's focus: Sensory processing and communication in students with ASD.