Having a child with sensory processing disorder can be frustrating, especially in regard to school issues. Children with SPD often have issues with focusing on current tasks, transitioning into new projects, or motor skill problems, such as holding a pencil, scissors, or other school-related items.
In a traditional classroom setting, your child with sensory processing disorder can be seen as disruptive, overly emotional, or academically challenged. In reality, your little one is really just trying to take in the world in bits and pieces or all at once, depending on whether they are a sensory introvert or an active seeker.
Without the right attention and access to learning strategies that work for your child, going to school can be stressful on their unique mind.
A Montessori school setting will assist your child in many ways, especially as they start their school career in kindergarten. Here are reasons to consider a Montessori educational program for your SPD child.
One-on-One Learning
The Montessori Method revolves largely around letting children learn at their own pace, based around personal interests and skills. This means classroom sizes are typically smaller than that of traditional public school settings and more teachers are available to assist students on a one-on-one basis.
Your child will learn how to hone their own special skills at a pace they are comfortable with while having access to a tutor who gives them the space your child needs to thrive. As your child builds confidence in their abilities, your young one can be introduced to smaller learning groups to build on socialization in a healthy, positive classroom environment.
Sensory Input
For all children with SPD, sensory input is key to keeping anxiety at bay and helping children remain focused. Sensory, hands-on play is something Montessori schools focus heavily on. Your child will have access to the outdoors as part of their learning experience and will be able to learn basic math, reading, and other important skills through touch and interaction rather than just book work.
If your child has a specific sensory tactic that works well for them, such as squeezing a ball, wrapping up in a weighted blanket, or snapping a rubber band, let your Montessori school advisor know. Your child will be able to incorporate their comfort sensory outlets into their learning, which will help them be even more calm and focused during school activities.
Routine
Being constantly exposed to changes and disruptions in normal routines throw children with sensory processing disorder into mental and physical exhaustion. This leads to meltdowns, fear, anxiety, and an unwillingness to learn. In a traditional classroom where students outnumber teachers, a strict or comfortable routine for your child is harder to achieve.
A Montessori learning environment will give your child a routine they can rely on, which will help your child learn how to transition from one task to another with ease and confidence.
Socializing
While much of what is taught in a Montessori school revolves around letting children think for themselves, socialization is a large part of this type of schooling. Your child will be involved in group play activities and active sensory-stimulating tasks, such as music, art, and theater.
As your child learns to share their space with others — with the help of their one-on-one instructor — your little one will gain the skills they need to interact with others in environments outside the classroom.
A Montessori school that is designed around your child’s unique sensory needs will help your little one gain confidence and a love of learning in their own unique way. Visit our school to learn more about how our Montessori program will benefit your child; contact us at Miniapple International Montessori Schools today.