Teaching Children with Sensory Motor Integration Deficits

• Have the child line up in the back of the line to minimize physical contact with others.
• Don't have the child wait in line for long periods of time.
• Permit the child to wear a sweater or jacket indoors. This may help to relax the child.
• Keep enough space between children so that they are not close enough to touch each other.
• When sitting on the floor, use markers or masking tape to define the child  s personal space.
• Allow the child to choose where he sits during story time.
• Don't force a child who is showing fear or distress to participate in activities.
• Place the child's desk along the side of the room outside of traffic.
• Orient the child's desk so that he has a good view of where others are moving.

• Never touch the child from behind.
• When you do touch the child, approach the child from the front to give a visual cue that light touch is coming.
• When touching the child, use firm pressure on the back or shoulder rather than a gentle touch.
• Seat the child next to quiet calm children.
• Some children are disturbed by the hardness of the chair. Allow the child to sit on a pillow on cushion.

• Allow the child to sit on an air cushion pillow that is slightly filled with air. This allows for movement without the child leaving his desk.
• Encourage the child to run or climb during recess.
• Give the child tasks requiring sustained repetitive movements, such as washing the desks or erasing the blackboard.
• Have these children move heavy objects like rearranging books or desks.
• Give the child opportunities to move around by making him your messenger. Let him run notes to other teacher or to get things the class needs.
• Never discipline the child by taking away recess privileges or physical education.

• Let them keep a water bottle at their desks.
• Let them chew on something like a straw or coffee stick.
• Let them keep a small squeeze ball in their pocket.

• Children with multiple disabilities often have sensory motor integration deficits.
• These children may have difficulty with motor planning and knowing the position of their body in space.
• These children often have poor balance.
• Being in crowded places and situations makes these children anxious and uncomfortable.

» left by kathy metzger

from Torino Italy 5 years 117 days ago.

It was simply written and concise, with good ideas. Thanks

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