Sensory Basics
How many sensory kits are given per group?
One
What sense do tactile tools stimulate?
Touch
Name a tool that you would choose to help a child with auditory overstimulation
Noise cancelling headphones (in the room) or earplugs (in the kits)
What should you do before entering the sensory room or shed?
Check the traffic light system and take off your shoes
What are some specific examples of tools you might find in a sensory kit or room?
Silly putty, popits, kaleidoscopes, earplugs, sunglasses, marble mesh, cooling towels, timers, chewies, bubbles, weighted plushies, tents, etc.
What type of input provides taste or textural stimilation in the mouth?
Gustatory
It’s a 30 degree day and Margot keeps dumping other people’s water bottles on her head to keep cool. What sensory kit item(s) do you reach for and which of the 8 senses does it support?
Misting bottle, cooling towel and/or fan. Interoceptive (internal body temperature) and tactile (water to skin)
You notice a member's behaviour escalating and needing a space to regulate. You are near the sensory shed so you bring them over for some calm time. Since the sensory shed is smaller than the sensory room you don't bring another adult with you and close the door behind you. Is this against policy?
Yes, 2 personnel must be with a member at all times if they are out of sight from the group.
The sensory room is meant to be used as:
a) Programming
b) A reward system
c) A way to contain escalations
d) A space to regulate
d) A space to regulate
What is an example of a proprioceptive tool?
Spinny chair, yoga ball, rocking chair, swing, vibrating cushion, etc.
You see a child squirming, bouncing and rough-and-tumble playing. What type of tool could you offer them that uses pressure to calm the body and focus attention?
Weighted items
You notice a camper is walking into the sensory room with their aide, but there is no other BF personnel with them. Is this against policy?
Yes, there must always be two adults with a member
Where are the sensory kits located?
In the backpack that contains the communication binder
Answers vary
Why is it important we have tools available that cater to all the different types of sensory needs?
Every child is unique—what helps one camper feel calm and focused might not work for another, as each individual responds to sensory input differently and finds success through different supports.
A set of earplugs gets thrown out of the bus window on the highway. Which senior staff do you go to get new ones?