Wellbeing

SWPBS

The Whittlesea Primary School Sensory Space

At Whittlesea Primary School, the Sensory Space is designed as a specialised, calm area intended to support students in various ways. It provides a quiet, structured, and supportive environment where students can safely explore and regulate their sensory needs through purposeful activities and equipment. All students have the opportunity to access the space during the second break of each day.

The sensory Space is used proactively and responsively, based on individual student needs identified by staff, the school's Wellbeing & Leadership Team, or Allied Health professionals. It serves as a tool to help students reset, self-regulate, and re-engage in learning, particularly during times of emotional dysregulation or sensory overload. 

Access to the sensory room is available as a flexible intervention space throughout the school day or for Allied Health appointments. All staff supervising the space during break times ensure a safe and inclusive experience for every student.

The sensory room is never used as a reward or a form of punishment. It is an essential component of our school’s wellbeing and inclusion framework, as part of our Multi-Tiered System of Supports. It reflects our commitment to supporting the diverse developmental, emotional, and sensory needs of our students, helping them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

At the end of Term 1, our Sensory Space relocated. It is now located in the school's ELC. 

(We have also submitted a grant application for some updated specialised equipment for this space. Fingers crossed that this is supported)

DISABILITY INCLUSION

We are now moving on to some of the lesser-known learning challenges. This week, we will be exploring Sensory Processing Disorder.

👶 What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) happens when the brain has difficulty receiving and making sense of messages from the senses (touch, sound, sight, smell, movement, etc.).

Children with SPD may be:

• Over-sensitive (e.g. bothered by loud noise or specific clothing)
• Under-sensitive (e.g. seeking constant movement or touch)
• Or a mix of both

It’s not a behaviour problem — it’s how their brain processes the world around them.

👀 How Might SPD Look in a Primary School Child?

You might notice a child who:

🧩 Covers their ears in noisy settings

🧩 Avoids certain foods or clothing textures

🧩 Struggles with busy, bright, or noisy environments

🧩 Has difficulty with balance or coordination

🧩 Constantly seeks movement (rocking, jumping, etc.)

🧩 Becomes easily overwhelmed or upset

These are not “naughty” behaviours — they’re ways of coping with sensory overload or seeking input.

🏫 What We Do at School

We use inclusive strategies to support all learners, including those with SPD:

✅ Quiet zones or calm-down spaces

✅ Noise-reducing headphones

✅ Fidget tools for focus

✅ Visual schedules and routines

✅ Movement breaks or flexible seating

✅ Collaboration with families and professionals (e.g. OT, Wellbeing Team)

🏡 What Families Can Do at Home

Here are some ways to help at home:

💡 Observe patterns – what triggers or calms your child?

💡 Create calming activities – weighted blankets, quiet corners, breathing

💡 Build in movement – e.g. trampolines, yoga, bike rides

💡 Stick to routines – predictability helps reduce stress

💡 Talk to a GP or paediatrician – for extra guidance or assessment

📚 Helpful Resources for Parents

🔗 Raising Children Network – Sensory Processing

🔗 Sensory Processing Australia