Classroom Environment

Tips/Ideas for setting up the Environment
(adapted from Milwaukee Public Schools 2016-2017 Regulation Cohort Reference Material, created by Katie Berg and Karn Cronwell)

• Natural light, low light (avoid fluorescent lights)

• Slow, rhythmic music - classical, drumming, guitar, cello (use of lower tones) - see article above

• Classroom spaces that are visually clean, uncluttered (cover shelves/storage with plain fabric, or place materials in cabinets)

• Amygdala Reset station / tools accessible - pretaught how to use!

• Variety of seating options / work space options, including standing workstations

• Visual schedule prominent in a visually clutter free space

• Scheduled movement breaks

• Class culture that it's okay to move / change position /work in spaces that work for the student / get needs met

• Carpet time seating visually defined (ex: boxed carpet pattern, carpet squares, taped X)

• Natural scents / essential oils (first ensure no scent sensitive students in classroom)

• Concrete visual boundaries for different areas/spaces in room

• Clear classroom expectations posted and regularly reviewed (see ND-affirming approach page for support in created ND-affirming rules)

• Provide blank space on at least one wall for students to have an area that is less visually stimulating

Positive Interactions
(adapted from Milwaukee Public Schools 2016-2017 Regulation Cohort Reference Material, created by Katie Berg and Karn Cronwell)

• Purposeful pacing of the class using voice, speaking rate, and rate of movement

• Pre warning of transitions (ex: "In 5 minutes we will clean up and get ready for ___.")

• ASK to touch, then slow, gentle placement of hand on student's shoulder

• Ensure you have the student's attention PRIOR to providing a direction (proximity)

• Encouragement and positivity

• Do not talk negatively about students in front of them!