Neurodiversity Week 2026

Evidence-Based Sensory Regulation in Educational Settings

Sensory breaks aren't "time off task" - they're neurological regulation tools that improve learning capacity and classroom participation. Children with sensory processing differences (common in autism, ADHD, dyspraxia, and other neurodevelopmental conditions) often struggle to maintain optimal arousal levels for learning.

These three evidence-based approaches address different regulation needs:

🏃 Movement Break: Vestibular and proprioceptive input for under-responsive sensory systems. Star jumps, high knees, or jogging provide the sensory feedback needed to increase alertness and focus.

💪 Heavy Work Activity: Deep pressure input through wall pushes, chair pushes, or carrying heavy items activates the proprioceptive system, providing calming and organizing effects on the nervous system.

🧘 Calming Strategy: Deep breathing, gentle stretching, or quiet corner time activates the parasympathetic nervous system, supporting regulation when children are overwhelmed or overstimulated

Shopping Survival Kit

Pack these essentials before your next shopping trip

🎧 Noise Protection: Loop earplugs or headphones reduce auditory overwhelm 

📝 Clear Plan: Know exactly what you need and where to find it - avoid panic grabbing 

🤲 Fidget Tool: Small, discreet tactile input for regulation 

🍬 Oral Sensory Input: Chewing gum or cold drink helps with regulation

🚪Exit Strategy: Know where exits are and give yourself permission to leave if needed

 Shopping shouldn't mean sensory overload. These tools help you navigate busy environments while protecting your nervous system. 

How OT Helps Individuals with Autism

Occupational therapy for autism goes far beyond "fixing" challenges - it's about understanding individual needs and building practical skills for everyday life.

Our OTs support autistic children and adults with:

🧠 Sensory Processing Support: Understanding hyper/hypo sensitivities, creating regulation strategies, modifying environments, and building self-understanding

🏠 Daily Living Skills: Self-care routines, hygiene, mealtimes, home management, and sleep strategies

👥 Social Participation: Community access, school/workplace inclusion, support groups, and maintaining relationships

✋ Motor Skills: Coordination, balance, handwriting, and fine/gross motor development

💚 Self-Regulation: Emotional regulation, understanding your emotions, and developing coping strategies

OT takes a holistic, strengths-based approach - working with autistic individuals to build skills, confidence, and independence.

Our assessments are neurodiversity-affirming and focus on what matters most to you or your child.

How OT Helps Individuals with ADHD

ADHD isn't just about attention - it impacts organisation, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and daily functioning. That's where occupational therapy comes in.

Our OTs support children and adults with ADHD through:

📋 Executive Function Support: Organisation strategies, time management, planning and sequencing tasks, memory aids

🎯 Sensory Regulation: Movement breaks, fidget tools, environmental setup (lighting, noise, seating), understanding your sensory needs

💡 Attention & Focus: Workspace modifications, task breakdown strategies, concentration techniques, minimising distractions

⏰ Daily Routines: Morning/evening routines, meal planning, sleep hygiene, managing transitions

🎓 School/Work Support: Reasonable adjustments, study strategies, workplace accommodations, self-advocacy skills

OT addresses the functional impacts of ADHD - helping individuals develop practical strategies for daily life, work, and learning.

Our assessments go beyond diagnosis - we focus on what's actually impacting your life and build strategies that work for you.