Classroom Environment
60 bpm music has been shown to increase focus and concentration. You can play it in the background during work times.Â
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!
Source: The Neurodivergent Teacher
Source: Dr. Lori Desautels, Revelations in Education