Materials

FINE-MOTOR AND QUIET ACTIVITIES

Fine-Motor activities carry a wealth of benefit when supporting students of all ages. The simple gesture of touching different textures helps to soothe and calm the brain. When students are emotionally charged, directing them to an area where a range of materials are available will begin the process of working through one’s emotions. Words are not needed, touching, trying one activity or another, whichever appeals or speaks to them. The shift in focus, from the triggering situation, in itself will help them ‘shift gears.’ We offer a range of suggestions, but they are by no means exhaustive. The key is in having a range, having them ‘at arm’s reach,’ and that they are readily accessible. Students will gravitate to different activities, this will also ‘speak’ to you of the different types of energy that they need to expend.  If you have students who favor specific items, we would suggest creating a Personal Bin for them, this will ensure that when they come to your intervention space, they will have access to the fine-motor activities of their preference.