PROFESSIONAL INQUIRY PROJECT
Sensory Room Committee Member
Inquiry Question
What is the importance of having a calming space or sensory resources available to assist children in refocusing? In what ways can the use of a sensory room promote success in all students?
About this Project
I have joined my school's committee for the development of the sensory room, as I believe that sensory input will contribute to students' success in self-regulation and refocusing. I have been an active member, contributing to the research and development of the current sensory room.
Research
Below is a PDF of the research I contributed to emphasizing the importance of developing a sensory room specific for our school. Click on the image to be taken to a full-sized view.
Below is a PDF of the interview questions I asked two of my human resources in regards to developing and maintaining a successful sensory room. Click on the image to be taken to a full-sized view.
Meeting Notes
January 10, 2019
This meeting focused on introducing the committee team to the initial budget, immediate and long-term plans for the development of the sensory room, and a list of equipment/ items to buy using the initial budget.
February 7, 2019
This meeting focused on upgrading the current sensory room and delving into research on other schools that already have sensory rooms. The committee also decided upon prioritizing grant applications, as we already had a $500 grant from ATB Financial that we turned into our initial budget.
March 13, 2019
This meeting focused on the updates of the current sensory room. The research done by various members of the committee was presented and discussed. A vision statement/ current goals were finalized.
A sketch was drawn by one of the committee members showcasing the vision of what the new sensory room will look like. This reconstruction will take place after April 19, 2019.
Development Process
Picture of the current sensory room
Picture of the current sensory room
Sensory Kit
The brainstorming process of my grade 5 students for potential items we could make for our sensory kit.
Some of the grade 4/5 students making DIY stress balls for their own sensory kit at-home. Their experience and my research demonstrate that having a sensory kit can lead to reduced anxiety and stress, and increase focus.
Reflection
Click on the PDF files to download and open a full-page version.
The left PDF file is my PIP proposal that I wrote in the beginning stages of my practicum. The right PDF file is a final report after my 3 months at the school.
Gently used blankets I donated to the sensory room