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Alert-Program

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Samuel Narvaez
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33 views

Alert-Program

Uploaded by

Samuel Narvaez
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Alert Program - How does my engine run?

What is Sensory Processing?


Sensory Processing is the process of our bodies taking in
information through our senses, organizing in our central
nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and responding to this
in a way that we can interact appropriately with the world
around us.

Engine theory
Our bodies are like engines of a car, sometimes they run high, sometimes they run low
and sometimes they run just right. If your engine is running on high speed you might be
overexcited, out of control and not want to sit still. If your engine is running on low speed
you might feel tired and zone out, not wanting to learn. If your engine is just right it is
easier to learn, play and get along with others.

In order for children to focus their attention, manage their emotions and control their
behavior, their engines need to be at their just right speed more of the time. Everyone’s
just right is different!

Engine Changers
Activities that we engage in change our engine speeds throughout the day. These
“engine changers” come from a range of sensations including movement, touch,
looking, listening and smell and taste. For example, chewing gum to calm oneself when
stressed or to alert when tired, or a deep bear hug to calm down when angry, or
jumping on the trampoline to give a boost of energy before start their homework.

Self-Regulation
Being able to manage the pace of your engine and knowing how to change it is called self-
regulation.

Self-regulation is a skill that can be developed over time and is something that is important for all
people to use. Some children will more assistance then others to understand and practice the
concept. This can be done by
 Talking about the pace at which his body is running (e.g. “How is your engine running?”) so
a common language can be used between home and school.
 Talk about how the engines can change with different input to the body. The engine
changer chart reflects what is helpful in changing their engine and can be used with them to
further aid their self- regulation. Parents giving examples of what they do to change their
own engines can be an excellent model.
 Incidental opportunities throughout the day (e.g. walk breaks, heavy load activities, using air
filled cushions or fit balls for desk work, wheat bags on lap.).
 Engaging in preventative sensory activities to minimize difficulties with emotional regulation.
This can be carried out before school and at the end of the school day.

Your child may indicate a preference for certain engine changers to help them feel just right, such
as sitting on a wobble cushion, going for a run before they do homework, listening to music as
they read. It is helpful for children to learn self-regulation when family and teachers support them
in finding what makes them feel just right. The classroom has access to several items for students
to use, however if your child wishes to use something in particular from home, talk to the teacher
about how this may be incorporated into the class.

For further information or individualized support please contact [email protected]

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