Establishment of Sensory Room at Bryn Mawr

Earlier this fall the OTPT department, along with the vendor Fun and Function, hosted the learning opportunity “Establishing a Sensory Friendly Classroom: Creating an Effective Environment and Incorporating Regulation Strategies.” A sensory room offering a student-centered sensory supportive environment was on display at that workshop. Following the presentation, the sensory materials were gifted to the OTPT department to use with students. In an effort to find the most effective use of the sensory equipment and tools, school were asked to present a proposal explaining how the staff would use the materials with their students. Nine schools presented proposals, and after review, Bryn Mawr’s special education team proposal was selected. Congratulations Bryn Mawr staff!

The sensory room materials have been set up at Bryn Mawr and the special education team members have received training. They are now engaged in developing individual sensory plans for selected students. We are excited about the potential that this room has for the students at Bryn Mawr to address their self-organization, self-regulation, calming, and sensory awareness skills. Emphasis will be on helping students learn and apply strategies to help them regulate to be available for learning. We are also excited to offer other building staff to come and view the room once it is in full operation. For further information, please contact Karen Bryce, OTPT Manager at Karen.Bryce@mpls.k12.mn.us