Sensory Breaks for Students with ADHD

The Importance of Sensory Breaks for Students with ADHD: A Guide for Parents

Hello, dear parents and caregivers,

I’m Preethiha, a speech therapist at Little Dots Speech Clinic in Anna Nagar. Today, I want to share a personal story that highlights the importance of sensory breaks for students with ADHD. This simple yet effective strategy can make a significant difference in your child's daily life.

A Day with Aarav: Discovering the Power of Sensory Breaks

Let me introduce you to Aarav, a bright and energetic 8-year-old who comes to our clinic. Aarav loves to learn but often struggles to stay focused in school. His parents, Ramesh and Sita, were concerned about his restlessness and difficulty in following instructions. After discussing his behavior, we realized that Aarav might benefit from sensory breaks.

What Are Sensory Breaks?

Sensory breaks are short, planned breaks that allow children to take a pause from their current activity and engage in a different, sensory-rich experience. These breaks help students with ADHD manage their energy levels, improve focus, and reduce anxiety.

How Sensory Breaks Help

1. Boosting Focus and Attention: Children with ADHD, like Aarav, often have trouble maintaining their attention. Sensory breaks, such as a few minutes of jumping jacks or a quick walk around the room, help reset their focus.

2. Reducing Overwhelm: Sensory overload can be overwhelming. Simple activities like squeezing a stress ball or listening to calming music can help children feel more in control and less stressed.

3. Improving Behavior: Regular sensory breaks can lead to better behavior in the classroom. Aarav’s teachers noticed that after incorporating sensory breaks, he was less disruptive and more engaged in learning.

Implementing Sensory Breaks at Home and School

Here are some easy and effective sensory break ideas that you can try with your child at home or suggest to their teachers:

1. Physical Activities:

• Jumping Jacks or Dancing: A quick burst of physical activity can help release pent-up energy.

• Stretching or Yoga: Gentle stretching or yoga poses can calm the mind and body.

2. Sensory Tools:

• Fidget Spinners or Stress Balls: These can provide the sensory input that children need to stay focused.

• Weighted Blankets: A short rest under a weighted blanket can be very soothing.

3. Quiet Time:

• Listening to Music: Calming music can help children relax and refocus.

• Deep Breathing Exercises: Simple breathing exercises can reduce anxiety and increase concentration.

Our Journey with Aarav

Over a few months, with consistent sensory breaks, Aarav’s ability to focus improved significantly. He became more confident in his abilities, and his parents noticed a positive change in his overall behavior. This transformation was not just about sensory breaks but also about understanding and supporting his unique needs.

Visit Little Dots Speech Clinic

At Little Dots Speech Clinic, we believe in holistic approaches that cater to each child's individual needs. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping children like Aarav thrive. If you’re noticing similar challenges with your child or have concerns about their speech and language development, we’re here to help.

Feel free to reach out to us at Little Dots Speech Clinic in Anna Nagar. We offer personalized therapy sessions, parent training, and a supportive community to ensure your child’s success.

Final Thoughts

Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s essential to try different strategies and see what suits your child best. Sensory breaks can be a powerful tool in managing ADHD, and with patience and consistency, you can make a significant difference in your child's life. Thank you for being part of our journey at Little Dots Speech Clinic. Together, we can create a brighter future for our children.

Warm regards,

Preethiha Speech Therapist

Little Dots Speech Clinic

Anna Nagar