Sensory and Physical Needs:

The Occupational Therapy service works with children who face challenges that may limit their ability to access the learning environment. Occupational Therapy supports the development of functional skills, including fine motor skills, gross motor skills, visual perception, and self-care.

• Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscle movements in the hands and fingers. In the classroom, this includes tasks like handwriting, using scissors or tools, and self-care activities.
• Gross motor skills refer to the movement and coordination of larger muscle groups in the arms and legs, which are essential for participation in physical activities like PE and play.
• Visual perception is the brain's ability to interpret and make sense of what the eyes see.
• Self-care involves daily activities such as dressing, feeding, drinking, and toileting. Some children may need support to develop independence in these skills.
• Sensory processing refers to how the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into responses. It involves all of our senses, including sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch, proprioception (body awareness), and the vestibular system (balance and movement).

At St. Michael's Easthampstead we use a range of strategies and interventions to provide support and additional opportunities for pupils with physical and sensory needs. Most pupil's needs can be met in the classroom through high-quality teaching, which may include adaptations to the learning environment. This can involve considerations for seating and positioning to ensure comfort and accessibility for all children.

• The Dyspraxia Association
• CDC (Council for Disabled Children) 
• Sensory Circuits