Winter Party Mania
Monday, December 09, 2024
Winter Party Mania
If you didn't know, I was a teacher. I have taught many grades in many different states. I love teaching, I love shaping lives, and I love making each kid feel like they belong, even though they are unique.
But feeling like you belong is a trick for many kids, and when sensory issues are at play, they can feel even more isolated from the group. Here are some tips you can do to help your kids find a space and a way to self-regulate when their classroom party becomes a bit much.
- Talk to the teacher or the Room Mom planning the party. If sound, light, or commotion is a trigger, suggest party ideas that minimize those triggers.
- Suggest heavy work activities or something outside to break up the noise and sensory overload.
- Ask if you could collaborate with another class and have one room, a noisier room, and one room, the quieter activity room.
- Ask the teacher to create a quiet zone, a place to escape the "fun" and decompress before jumping back in. (If the classroom is not an option, maybe a desk in the hall or a space in another classroom)
- Ask for a schedule of events and walk through them with your child so they know what to expect.
- Ask the teacher if your child can be paired with a friend or buddy; someone that will feel like a constant while participating in the activity.
- Let your child opt out of the activity(s). If it is just too much, ask if there is a place he could do something else, with someone else if they are experiencing the same overload.
- Let your child take a fidget to school to help keep his mind calm while participating.
- Arrange for lap weights. These can be very calming and can provide a bit of a distraction if it is new.
- Arrange for a walk if things get too overwhelming.
- Ask your child if they would like earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. -- I had a student that just used cotton.
- Teach your child to belly breathe. This video is for littles, but the idea works for everyone. Five deep breaths and our mind can be clearer for decision making.
Most students love a good class party, but that excitement can aggravate the students with sensory needs. As a teacher, I tried hard to accommodate sensory sensitive students, even in non-party times. Although I do not love a noisy classroom, I know that that noise often means they are LEARNING. But, some students simply don't do well in that collaborative commotion. So, I paired with another nearby teacher to have a desk in the back of her room so when a child needed a break, there was a safe place to go, and I did the same for her.
Most teachers are willing to meet your child's needs, but with 25 other kids to think about, it is hard to ensure each need is met. It is up to you and your child to advocate for those specific needs. If you have a plan, especially a "party plan," I can't imagine a teacher not willing to make sensory accommodations for your child. Give it a try, see if it makes party day a little more exciting for your sensitive guy or gal.
Hi, I Am
Lisa Stewart M.Ed.
Founder of
Advocating 4 Fair Education
and Dyslexic Parent
Lisa Stewart is the driving force behind Advocating4FairEducation.com, where she passionately advocates for equitable and inclusive educational practices. With a deep-seated commitment to transforming educational systems, Lisa leverages her extensive background in educational policy, community outreach, and grassroots activism to address disparities and promote fairness in schools. Her work focuses on ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has access to high-quality education and the resources they need to succeed. Through her platform, Lisa empowers educators, engages communities, and influences policy to create a more just and effective educational landscape for all.
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I offer individual support where I will walk with you step by step to support your child on their educational journey.
However, I also offer a Handbook and Video Series that will walk you through the process -- as well as a Webinar where you can come and ask questions specific to your child.
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