Sensory supports can quietly transform a child’s school day. We all take in sensory information—from a cool breeze to hallway chatter—and usually carry on. But then there’s that itchy shirt tag that “announces” itself until you snip it off. We all have sensitivities like that—or sensory experiences we crave, like warm sunshine. The difference is in how each nervous system processes input, and thoughtful sensory supports help many students find comfort and focus.
For some of our kids, like my daughter Elizabeth, it’s more than sensitivity. It’s often described as sensory processing differences, which can affect everyday life—including school. Some children need more sensory input to regulate; others need less to calm their systems. Once you understand what your child needs and “how they work,” you can build a sensory diet for the classroom that helps the nervous system find balance (homeostasis). For a plain-language overview of classroom strategies and supports, see resources from reputable child-development organizations.
Why sensory supports at school matter
When a child’s nervous system is over- or under-responsive to input, attention, participation, and learning can suffer. Thoughtfully chosen sensory supports at school can help kids reach a steadier state so they can access instruction and enjoy their day.
Elizabeth was diagnosed at 2½ and she’s now 28. Over the years, we’ve created (and re-created) many sensory diets to meet her changing needs. I don’t consider myself an expert—just an expert in her. With that, here are four school-day sensory supports that were “Elizabeth-tested and approved.”
Four classroom sensory supports
Sensory Support #1: Make Sitting Easier (Without Leaving the Lesson)
Sitting still can be hard for kids with sensory needs—which makes listening and learning hard, too. Short hallway walks are great, but sometimes you want support in the classroom.
What helped Elizabeth was what she calls the “wiggle cushion”—officially, an inflatable balance/seat cushion. The subtle movement provides the input her body needs so she can focus longer. You can request one through your child’s IEP (Individualized Education Program) or send one from home; the U.S. Department of Education outlines what an IEP includes and how it supports access and participation.
Optional TalkTools tip (per clinician guidance): If brief oral input helps your child organize, your SLP may recommend short, therapist-directed oral-motor breaks using the TalkTools® Sensi® handle with appropriate tips.
Sensory Support #2: Provide Safe, Appropriate Chewing Options
Many of our kids need to chew. Chewing offers strong, organizing sensory input and can be calming and focusing. Without a plan, kids may chew shirt collars or water bottle lids. The Child Mind Institute explains why classroom accommodations like fidgets or chewing alternatives can help.
- Try: TalkTools® Sensory Chew Necklaces — discreet and designed for oral sensory input.
- Or: TalkTools® Sensory Chew Pencil Toppers — classroom-friendly and available in different firmness levels.
Heads up: Always loop your child’s teacher and therapist in so they understand the strategy and can support safe use.
Sensory Support #3: Add Deep-Pressure “Heavy Work” the Simple Way
Deep pressure input is regulating for many kids (Elizabeth included). A practical school option is to add a bit of weight to the backpack during transitions (think a couple of small bean bags or a few books)—used thoughtfully and with your OT’s guidance. For general safety, the American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org) advises backpacks shouldn’t exceed ~15% of a child’s body weight and offers tips on fit, packing, and wearing.
Disclaimer: This was a therapist suggestion for our family and is shared as a personal example. Use it to provide input—not to strain or injure a child. Consult your OT/SLP for what’s appropriate.
Sensory Support #4: Build in Oral-Motor “Sip Breaks” for Regulation
Sucking through a straw can be soothing and organizing for some kids.
- Pack a water bottle with a straw and consider a TalkTools® Lip Block® to promote efficient sipping and limit over-insertion/biting.
- Plan “sip breaks” with your SLP/OT. For context, ASHA’s pediatric feeding resources outline how professionals approach oral skills within safe feeding and drinking routines.
Partner with your team to document sensory supports
Sensory needs are real and impact our kids every day. There’s a wide range of profiles, so work closely with your child’s therapist(s) and educators to build the right sensory diet and IEP supports. If your child has documented sensory needs, include relevant accommodations and tools in the IEP.
TalkTools Tools, Courses & Books
- Sensory Chew Necklaces and Chewy Pencil Toppers — simple, classroom-friendly chewing options.
- Lip Block® — supports safer, more efficient straw drinking during calming “sip breaks.”
- Course: Feeding Therapy: A Sensory-Motor Approach — practical strategies for sensory-motor regulation and feeding skills.
- Books: OPT (Oral Placement Therapy) for Speech Clarity & Feeding and A Sensory-Motor Approach to Feeding.
Reputable Further Reading
- Backpack safety & weight guidance (AAP/HealthyChildren.org) — how to size, pack, and wear; target ≤ ~15% of body weight.
- Sensory processing in school: accommodations that help (Child Mind Institute).
- School success kit for kids with sensory processing issues (Child Mind Institute).
- Sensory diet activity ideas
- Pediatric feeding & swallowing (ASHA Practice Portal; public resources).
- IEP basics & law (U.S. Department of Education; IDEA)
As always, consult your child’s clinician to individualize any tool or strategy.