A practical free guide for teachers with simple strategies you can start using in your classroom immediately.
Classrooms contain a lot of sensory input, so reducing unnecessary noise, visual clutter and overwhelm can help students feel calmer and more able to focus.
Using clear language, visuals and giving processing time helps ensure all students can understand instructions and expectations.
Consistent routines and clear structures help students feel safe, reduce anxiety and support engagement in learning.
Preparing resources and planning smooth transitions between activities helps lessons run more calmly and accessibly.
Teaching children to recognise emotions and providing strategies such as breaks, calm spaces or sensory tools helps them regulate and participate in learning.
Encouraging students to communicate their needs and make choices supports confidence, independence and reduces the pressure to mask.
When behaviour is viewed as communication, teachers can better understand underlying needs and respond in supportive ways.
Visual schedules, countdowns and advance warnings help students prepare for changes and move between activities more successfully.
Visual supports such as checklists, examples and step-by-step instructions make tasks clearer and more accessible.
Demonstrating tasks helps students understand expectations more clearly than relying on verbal instructions alone.
Using hands-on activities and incorporating student interests helps sustain attention and motivation.
