Why Sensory Awareness Matters
Before learning even begins, the brain processes sensory input—both from the environment and within the body. Only after this comes social processing, emotions, and finally, the ability to engage with learning. If the sensory environment isn’t working for your students, their brains are already overloaded before they even start!
Neurodivergent learners, in particular, may experience sensory input differently—some are highly sensitive, some under-sensitive, and others need extra sensory input for regulation. They tell us time and again that their classroom’s sensory setup directly impacts their learning and well-being.
A neuroinclusive classroom recognises, supports, and celebrates all types of brains!
What’s a Sensory Stocktake?
A Sensory Stocktake is a structured way to understand your students’ sensory experiences. Here’s how to do it:
Get Brain-Fluent! Start with the Welcome to My Brain game - you can learn more and get FREE lesson plans here - and some neurodiversity-positive books (our top picks are here and here)
Use the Sensory Stocktake Tool.
💡 Hint: Use the Sensory Stocktake Tool in a way that suits your students—through class discussions, individual reflection, or in pairs/groups. Ensure all students take part to highlight that every brain has unique sensory needs!
Now, Take Action!
It’s critical to act on what students share! Here’s how:
Less is more! Simplify where possible, adding flexibility & choice.
Aim for a ‘better fit,’ not a ‘perfect’ one—one size does not fit all!
Quick Wins for Sensory-Friendly Classrooms
✔️ Create a low sensory zone with strategic furniture placement, soft furnishings & uncluttered walls. Check out our quick guide on Setting Up A Sensory-Friendly Space for quick and easy ways to do this!
✔️ Offer everyday items as fidgets - freely available - no fuss, no fanfare.
✔️ Use consistent and predictable classroom routines. Visual prompts can be used as 'shorthand' for these and reduce the amount of teacher talk needed.
Test, Reflect, Repeat!
Choose one small change.
Explain & model it with students.
Test it for at least a week.
Reflect WITH students.
Adjust & try again!
🎥 Watch the Building A Neuroinclusive School Community Cafe session below:
