Engaging & Regulating Sensory Systems for Optimal Learning

Course Description: The goal of this educational program is to provide the school-based therapist a guide through identifying students sensory challenges with and during virtual learning environments.  Modifications, adaptations, and treatment strategies will be provided to assist the student at all age levels to help optimize their learning potential on-line. Due to the unforeseen climate of our current situation, many schools have had to transition to all virtual or a hybrid in person and virtual learning environment.  In doing so, many students in special education have experienced challenges both in virtual classroom instruction as well as receiving teletherapy for related services.  For the SPD student, their SPD has not been erased just because they are trying to learn in the alternative environment. If anything, it has complicated the process for that student trying to change their learning to a whole different format. No longer are the supports that we as therapist try to help implement in school available in the home for that student.  No longer does the student continue to have the support of multiple staff members in the school environment to help them self-regulate and maintain focus for optimal learning. In fact, many times educational materials and sensory supports are often non-existent in the home or community setting.  Therefore, this course is designed to help educate therapists on the challenges of SPD and virtual learning as well as to provide applicable solutions to help these students thrive in therapy sessions.