Why Sensory Should Come First in the Classroom

If a student is distracted, upset, or acting out, sensory needs may be the reason. Many behaviors that look like misbehavior are really signs of sensory dysregulation.

In this episode of Teach, Task Box, Inspire, I talk about how sensory needs affect behavior, learning, and focus. First, I explain the Sensory Pyramid (also called the Pyramid of Learning). Then, I break down the eight sensory systems in simple terms.

Through real classroom stories, I show how to look past behavior and spot possible sensory needs. This shift helps teachers support students in a calm and caring way.

Next, I share tips for working with your school’s occupational therapist. I also offer ideas for adjusting routines to better support sensory needs—without making things harder.

Understanding sensory is key. When we support sensory needs, students feel safe, and learning can finally happen.

Whether you're a special educator or a general ed teacher, this episode will help you look at behavior in a new way. It all starts with sensory.

Episode Highlights:

1. The Pyramid of Learning: What Comes Before Academics
   Learn why attention, language, and academics rest on a foundation of sensory development—and how ignoring that foundation can derail everything else.
   
2. The 8 Sensory Systems (Yes, 8!)
   Lisa breaks down all eight senses, including lesser-known ones like proprioception and interoception, and how they impact student behavior and emotional regulation.
   
3. Sensory ≠ Diagnosis: What Teachers and BCBAs Can Do
   You don’t need to be an OT to recognize dysregulation and make smart referrals. Lisa explains how to observe, document, and collaborate effectively.
   
4. From Chaos to Clarity: Real-Life Examples of Sensory-Driven Behavior Shirt chewing, constant movement, sudden shutdowns—Lisa walks through common scenarios and how a sensory lens can totally shift your response.

Resources Mentioned:

Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom

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More About Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast:

Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast is your go-to educational podcast dedicated to making your job as a special education teacher easier and more enjoyable. Your host, Lisa Hollady, is a veteran special education teacher with a passion for helping teachers like you make a real difference in the lives of your students.

In your demanding roles, you’re constantly juggling various responsibilities, from differentiated instruction and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to data collection, and, of course, teaching. That’s where task boxes come in.

Task boxes aren’t just teaching tools. They’re the key to unlocking student independence, student engagement, and personalized learning. Through this podcast, you’ll uncover the incredible task box benefits for your special needs students and practical implementation tips that you can take to your classroom.

Tune in each Monday for a new episode that will equip you with essential strategies and motivation to approach your week with confidence and enthusiasm. Topics will include task box activities, social and emotional development, adaptive teaching, inclusive teaching, supporting diverse learners, classroom management, scheduling, visual aids, and more.

If you’re looking for more special education resources and support to increase student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.