08 OCTOBER 2026
Every moment of the day, a child’s brain is taking in information from the world around them. Sensory integration in school plays a pivotal role in optimising learning outcomes and supporting regulation across all learning environments.
What you'll learn
✔️ An introduction to sensory processing and how it influences learning, behaviour, emotional regulation, and participation in school.
✔️ How the brain uses and organises information from the eight sensory systems to help pupils navigate everyday experiences.
✔️ Strategies for adapting teaching approaches to support visual, auditory, kinaesthetic, and multi-sensory learners.
In this article and video, Ben Stamper, Occupational Therapy Apprentice from our Lakeside School in Liverpool, shares an overview of sensory processing and how to support pupils in school.
Sensory processing is the way the brain organises and makes sense of this constant flow of information so children can respond appropriately. When sensory processing is working well, pupils can play, learn, and manage their emotions more easily. When it becomes challenging, everyday experiences can feel overwhelming or, in some cases, not stimulating enough. This can affect a child’s behaviour, attention, and ability to cope with daily routines.
Understanding the eight sensory systems
While most people think of the five senses, the body actually relies on eight sensory systems. Alongside sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, there are three additional systems that play a vital role in daily life.
1. Vestibular
The vestibular system supports balance and coordination and helps children understand movement.
2. Proprioception
Proprioception gives awareness of where the body is in space, helping children judge pressure, force, and movement.
3. Interoception
Interoception allows children to sense what is happening inside their bodies, such as feeling hungry, thirsty, tired, or cold.
When these systems work together effectively, children feel more regulated and confident in their environment.
Watch this whistle-stop tour on an overview of sensory processing, explained by our Occupational Therapy Apprentice, Ben Stamper.
Different sensory responses in pupils
Children can respond to sensory input in a variety of ways, and these responses may change depending on the situation. Some children are sensory seekers, actively craving movement, touch, or sound. They may appear constantly on the go, running, jumping, climbing, or touching everything around them.
Other children are sensory avoiders, becoming overwhelmed by loud noises, strong smells, busy spaces, or certain textures. Some may be sensory under-responsive and appear not to notice sensory input, reacting more slowly to what is happening around them.
It’s important to remember that children rarely fit into just one category, therefore learning styles may have to be constantly looked at and adapted to suit. A child may seek sensory input in one area while avoiding it in another.
"No one fits into one box."
Understanding sensory learning styles
Aligning instructional methods with diverse sensory learning styles allows educators to engage a broader range of pupils while reducing the need for reactive, individualised adjustments.
Visual learners thrive when presented with graphics, flowcharts, colour-coded text, and clear written board instructions that serve as permanent reference points. Meanwhile, auditory learners process information best through verbal summaries, podcasts, collaborative peer discussions, and structured Q&A sessions.
By embedding hands-on applications, such as tactile building tasks, roleplay, and varied writing tools, kinaesthetic and multi-sensory learners activate broader neural pathways, leading to deeper retention and more effective overall learning.
Observing sensory processing
One of the most effective ways to support a pupils’ sensory needs is through observation. Paying attention to what helps them feel calm, what causes stress, and what supports emotional regulation can reveal useful patterns.
By noticing when a pupil struggles and when they thrive, educators can begin to understand how their sensory system works. This understanding forms the foundation for meaningful and personalised support.
Planning and preparing for sensory challenges
Once patterns are identified, planning and preparation can reduce stress for both pupils and teachers. If certain environments or situations are challenging, small adjustments can make a big difference. Creating quieter spaces in school, preparing a child for what to expect, or agreeing on a plan if things feel overwhelming can help children feel more secure.
Allowing use of familiar sensory items, such as ear defenders or calming objects, can also provide reassurance and support regulation.
Building sensory support into daily school life
Supporting sensory processing is not just about managing difficult moments, it’s about meeting sensory needs throughout the day. Sensory seekers may benefit from regular movement breaks, active play, or deep pressure activities. Pupils who avoid sensory input may need quiet, low-stimulus spaces where they can relax and decompress.
Recognising that each pupil has a unique sensory profile requires a commitment to ongoing observation, patience, and professional adaptability. By identifying and responding to these individual sensory preferences, educators can create an inclusive environment where pupils develop greater confidence, emotional comfort, and long-term independence.
