Breaking the static barrier for kids; Are sensory smarts the key to overcoming learning struggles?
4 minutes read | Written by Dorja Benussi
Do you know that building a better brain starts with strengthening sensory intelligence? Research has shown that movement and sensory experiences are crucial to our brain development and cognitive functioning, and that’s especially true when it comes to kids. When we engage our senses, we activate different parts of our brain making us more alert, attentive and ready to learn. By tapping into their sensory smarts, we can help our children reach their full potential and become confident, capable learners.
Photo by Benussi&theFish
When children move and engage in sensory experiences, their brains are stimulated and challenged in ways that are essential for learning
Movement helps our brains develop and work better. It's been shown that kids who move while they learn, learn better. Studies have found that incorporating movement into the classroom can improve academic performance, attention, and behaviour, whereas static teaching environments can be detrimental to children's learning and their overall health.
Research indicates that when children engage in activities that involve movement and sensory input, they are more able to process and retain information. This is because movement and sensory experiences help to create new neural pathways in the brain, that can improve cognitive skills such as attention, memory, and problem-solving.
So why do we continue to require children to sit still while learning?
Movement is also a key factor in both learning and emotional regulation. It allows us to perceive and understand our internal, bodily states. Children who struggle with this may have difficulty focusing, regulating their emotions and understanding social cues. That's why it's crucial to create a supportive sensory environment and recognise the tight connection between physical and emotional states. Sometimes, we may assume that a child's misbehaviour or learning struggles are due to something more serious when they could be grappling with basic sensory sensitivities. The good news is that these sensitivities are often easy to address and can make a big difference in their ability to do well.
What does this mean for children who struggle with learning or emotional regulation?
While there are many different learning difficulties and diagnoses that require specialist support, sometimes children just struggle with interoception and self-regulation which can be addressed with very simple sensory tools, rather than medications.
Incorporating sensory tools into a child's daily routine can benefit their focus and learning, no matter their sensory needs. Things like fidget toys, weighted blankets and breathing exercises can improve concentration and emotional management. Plus, these tools can help children feel more at ease and confident in their learning environment. It would be amazing to see an entire classroom designed with these tools in mind.
Here are five ideas for sensory tools that can benefit all children:
Fidget toys: Small handheld toys like stress balls, squishy toys, or tactile rings can provide a calming sensation for children who have trouble focusing during learning activities.
Seat cushions: Air-filled cushions, wobble stools or textured seat cushions can help kids stay seated and engaged by providing a sensory input that promotes movement and balance.
Noise-cancelling headphones: For children who are easily distracted by noise, these headphones can help create a quieter environment and promote focus.
Chewable jewelry: Some children may benefit from chewing on something while they work. Chewable jewelry like necklaces or bracelets, made from safe materials, can provide a discreet sensory outlet.
Aromatherapy: Certain scents, like lavender or peppermint, have been shown to promote relaxation and focus. Essential oils or scented lotions can be used to create a calming environment during learning activities.
Weighted compression, cocooning, a safe space: Some kids benefit from feeling enclosed and safe during learning activities. Weighted items help a lot, providing a comforting compression sensation. A cozy, safe space helps children feel secure and reduce anxiety, allowing them to better focus on learning.
Sensory integration, the ability to process and understand sensory input, lies at the core of all other ‘smarts’, be it cognitive, social or emotional intelligence. By nurturing children's sensory intelligence through movement and sensory engagement, we can equip them with the tools they need to excel, both academically and emotionally.
So, the next time you find yourself mired in a dull, stationary teaching environment or struggling to support a child grappling with learning or emotional challenges, remember the transformative power of movement. By focusing on building sensory smarts, we can help our children become agile learners, emotionally attuned and successful in all aspects of life.
Written by
Co-founder of Tink Things and Benussi&theFish
Designer & creative director, mom, dancer, overthinker, peace pursuer
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