My students need a variety of sensory-stimulating materials aimed at developing their sensory awareness, including a sensory ball set, a touch and match guessing game, and colored rice.
Sensory awareness is something that most children acquire naturally over time. My autistic students, however, require specialized, sensory-related tools in order to develop these vital skills.
In my special education preschool classroom, I have 5 awesome boys and one equally awesome little girl.
Though they learn differently from other children their age, they are every bit as curious and eager to learn!
We are located at a public elementary school in urban Honolulu. Despite our beautiful location, we face many challenges, to include poverty, low-English proficiency, and of course our special needs.
My Project
This assortment of sensory-stimulating toys will benefit my highest and my lowest learners equally, which is what makes them all so practical! Over time, my students will develop their sensory awareness, all while practicing self-regulation/calming techniques.
Here are a few of the things I'm asking for:
1. A Mystery Box- A 'mystery box', also called a 'feely-box', is an enclosed box that allows only a hand to fit inside. Inside the box, will be items, usually themed, like 'fruit' or 'modes of transportation'. As a group, students will take turns reaching into the box, finding a teacher-specified item (i.e. banana) and pulling it out. Students truly love this activity!
2. Hands Helping Hands Switch- This item is often classified as a 'cause and effect' toy, because it not only provides sensory-stimulation (touch, sound), but also teaches cause/effect (i.e. hit the switch, hear the sound). This is great for my lower learners, and my visually impaired students.
By supporting this project, you'll be contributing to the vital sensory development of my special needs students.
I cannot wait to see their faces as they reach into the 'feely-box', or toss tactile balls to one another! What great fun!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Foulds and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
