As we start the new school and welcome back returning friends, we are also excited to welcome some new friends. This week we are joined by our new afternoon assistant, Catie, and next week we have a new child starting with us! Additionally, the TC friends have found and begun to enjoy some new sensory materials that were placed in the room during prep week.

Sensory processing refers to the way the brain receives messages from the sensory receptors mainly concentrated in our hands, feet, lips, mouth, tongue, eyes, ears, nose and skin and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. Research suggests that we may be able to use sensory input to develop improved neural circuitry helping to wire the brain and create connections that are crucial for learning, problem-solving, motor development and emotional regulation. Sensory processing is involved in everyday activities like eating, dressing, and grooming. Sensory issues can make these tasks challenging for toddlers, impacting their independence and self-care skills.

Some of the new items in our room include the cozy corner inspired by one found in Children's House 2. The children can take a moment to sit in a quieter space when the busyness of the environment becomes a little overstimulating, or if they just need to rest. Inside the cozy corner they will find a fuzzy rug for tactile input, a cozy pillow to relax on and noise reducing headphones.

We also added a new collection of fidgets that all children are welcome to use. Some other ways that children have been finding sensory input include:

• Playing the thumb piano on their belly to feel the vibrations
• Hopping work (hopping over a line)
• Pushing against an adult's hands
• Bear hugs
• Heavy Work
• Sensory bottles
• Squeezing clay

If need children need large motor movement they are given the chance to do so during the work cycle with our Educational Support Assistant (Paige), by helping her with big jobs like laundry or delivering milk to all of the classrooms. Recess is also a great opportunity for large motor activities. 

Here is a link to a google drive folder with some of the articles, tips, and resources we have utilized here at CRMS: Learning, Regulation, Sensory, and Movement Resources

Breanna