Sensory Integration, Orton Gillingham, and Montessori

Sensory Integration, Orton Gillingham, & Montesorri

As educators, we need to pay attention to sensory issues with our students. So many children have some form of a sensory processing disorder and we can make simple changes in our classroom to help them.  It's no secret that time in front of a screen has increased and time spent in nature and interacting with others has decreased. This is true for all ages.  We must be aware of how we can help our students during their hours at school. In a world filled with so many distractions, let's be attentive to what our young learners truly need from us when they are in our care.  By designing lessons that allow students to engage more senses, the outcome is increased learning. Also, by creating a space for students to be able to step away and "destress" we are helping them to learn how to recognize their emotions and respond accordingly. These skills will benefit the young scholar far beyond the classroom.  I am going to be sure to dedicate a space in my classroomn for a "calm down corner" because I know it is so important. 

The Orton-Gillingham approach is showing great results in classrooms across the nation. By integrating multiple senses when introducing English Language Arts skills, students are more engaged. With higher level of engagement comes a higher level of learning.  When teachers are trained in the Orton-Gillingham excercises/activities, students will have greater success with their learning targets. I was fortunate to see some of these lessons implemented in my practicum setting. I hope to be trained in the near future so I can help maximize my students' learning.  

Maria Montessori is a well known name in the education community. With multiple schools across the world dedicated solely to her research, we can all learn from her example and help our students.  Young children need freedom of choice; they also need structure. A delicate balance of these two is not an unattainable goal. Rather, there is great beauty when you combine the two concepts. Another great feature from Montessori is having students interact with nature. By engaging more senses, (see the pattern from the previous paragraphs?), student learning is taken to a higher level.  I want to incorporate as many sensory activities as possible across my curriculum with my future students!