Classroom Tools

Our classroom has a number of "tools" that we use throughout the year.  The picture shows some of the tools we currently have, most of which focus on movement control.  The orange mushroom chair helps a child build core muscle strength by making them stabilize the chair while seated.  The red and blue bubbled seat cushions also help focus on core muscles while seated.  We have small squishy balls that students use to keep their hands busy while listening, and weighted animals (snake and dog) which can be placed on a lap or on shoulders to minimize movements and provide sensory stimulation. 

All of these tools are used for a variety of reasons, but the main goal is to have the student in the optimal learning "zone".  This may mean movement, pressure, or other stimulation in order to reach this zone. 

Students will be introduced to these tools over the next few school days, and be taught how to and why we use them.  Students will also be shown that not every tool fits every person.  Not every student will have, or necessarily need, a tool but I wanted you to be aware of options within our classroom.

I also didn't want anyone to panic if your child comes home and says "Mrs. Elder made me wear a snake around my neck today"...