Managing Big Emotions and Sensory Needs at School – Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology Guidance

School environments can be busy, noisy, and demanding. Many children experience challenges with emotional regulation or sensory processing that impact learning and wellbeing. OT and SP support helps students develop coping strategies to manage these demands.

Preschool

Young children are learning to understand and manage emotions.

• Use visual emotion charts to identify feelings

• Provide calming sensory activities such as deep pressure or movement

• Teach simple calming strategies like deep breathing

• Maintain predictable routines

Primary School

Primary students may struggle with frustration, anxiety, or sensory overload.

• Teach coping strategies for classroom stress

• Provide regular sensory breaks

• Support emotional language to express feelings

• Encourage problem-solving skills

High School

High school students often face academic pressure and social stress.

• Support stress management and time management skills

• Address sensory sensitivities in busy environments

• Teach self-advocacy and emotional awareness

• Encourage balance between school, rest, and leisure

Supporting emotional regulation and sensory needs can significantly improve school participation and wellbeing.