SENSORY MATRIX

Senses Triggers Possible Solutions

Fluorescent lighting Allow student to use natural light
Sight by window or a lamp
Make covers for lighting
Videos with flashing or fast-moving Students may turn away or take a
images break
Distraction outside classroom Move student away from window
or door
Distraction inside classroom Move student to area with less
(posters, visual images, etc.) visual stimulus
Alarms and drills Inform students ahead of time
Hearing about scheduled alarms and drills
Practice drill routines
Students talking and working Offer sound-lessening headphones
Quiet space available to continue
work
Bell ringing Inform students that bell will be
ringing in a minute
Equipment Humming Seat student away from equipment

Painting on hands with paintbrush Carefully demonstrate, explain

Touch procedures and allow practice
Using papier mache Allow student to use brush or
gloves
Using clay Allow student to use gloves or tools
Proximity of other students Provide alternative seating
Discuss strategies for managing
personal space issues
 Smell from materials (paint, glue, Avoid, limit or provide alternative
Smell markers, etc.) options of materials
Offer nose clips or mask
Allow a break
Perfumes or air fresheners Avoid use of perfumes and air
fresheners
Seat student by open window

Materials that resemble food in taste Use non-toxic materials

Taste or smell (paste, play-doh, paint, Mix and store materials in non-
scented markers) food containers

Food or drink in art room No food or drink allowed

Putting supplies/materials in mouth Reinforce appropriate behavior and

procedure
Activities involving movement Instruct students to use slow and
Vestibular System purposeful movements
Activities are organized and may be
introduced/practiced prior
Student movement during studio Students must move quietly
time Only one student per table up at a
time
Overstimulation Prepare materials in advance

Understimulation Allow student to move about the

room