Sensory Strategies to Manage Behaviour and Support Learning
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-05-08 | - |
| 2025-07-08 | - |
Program Overview
Sensory Strategies to Manage Behaviour and Support Learning
Overview
The course introduces children’s behaviour from the perspective of their sensory processing needs. It would be of particular use to those working with or caring for early years foundation stage or key stage 1 and 2 children.
Challenging behaviour, difficulties with paying attention and learning, motor coordination issues (clumsiness, dyspraxia), problems with emotional regulation and social relationships may sometimes be caused by unmet sensory processing needs. This course explains how the sensory systems work – through self-experiential activities and practical examples. Building on this knowledge, examples of sensory difficulties are discussed which are typical for children with autism, ADHD/ADD or dyspraxia.
Sensory strategies are useful in general in working with children because they promote feeling of safety, provide calmness or if necessary, energise and support focusing on task. Understanding neurodiversity, which sensory needs are part of, is essential in providing inclusive practice and building equitable environments.
Who is this course aimed at?
- Educational practitioners (teachers, teaching and learning assistants, SENCOs)
- Social care practitioners working with children and young people with disabilities
- Parents
What you'll learn
The workshop will include:
- An introduction into how sensory strategies are used in everyday life
- Looking at the seven sensory systems and their functions (visual, auditory, smell and taste, touch, proprioceptive and vestibular systems)
- Neurodiversity – individual differences in sensitivity/reactivity
- Noticing the issue(s) and finding suitable strategies
- Discussion of case studies and real-life examples
At the end of the session, attendees will be able to understand and analyse sensory processing needs, and apply their understanding of sensory processing needs to design sensory-friendly inclusive activities and spaces. These may assist with resolving and avoiding challenging behaviour patterns such as meltdowns, aggression or even self harming.
Testimonials
Reviews for the workshop have been excellent, with participants highlighting that they particularly valued:
"The practical strategies introduced - very easily applied to practice, took complex ideas and simply explained. Use of personal experience was a good teaching strategy to help make content understood."
"Learning more about the "why" people with sensory needs can act the way they do."
Course Staff
Dr Ivana Lessner Listiakova
Ivana is an Associate Professor in Childhood and Education.
Fees and Funding
2024/25
£145
Please note, UOS Alumni and members of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce receive a 10% discount.
University of Suffolk
Overview:
The University of Suffolk is a modern, dynamic institution focused on transforming individuals, its community, and the region. It emphasizes research excellence and innovation, fostering a vibrant learning environment.
Services Offered:
The University offers a comprehensive range of services for students, including:
Funding Your Studies:
Financial aid options for undergraduate, postgraduate, international, and additional support.Your Campus:
Access to the Ipswich Campus, Student Centre, sports facilities, and partner colleges.Student Life:
Support services like disability and wellbeing resources, student life mentors, counselling, chaplaincy, and a dedicated Student Life Team.Library and Learning Services:
Access to library resources and learning support.Applicant Area:
A dedicated portal for prospective students.Student Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options.Careers and Employability:
Support for career development and job search.Visit Us:
Opportunities to visit the campus and learn more about the university.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The University of Suffolk provides a vibrant campus experience with a focus on student wellbeing and support. Students can expect:
Destination Suffolk:
Opportunities to explore the county of Suffolk, with its diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.Student Life Mentors:
Peer support and guidance from experienced students.Counselling Service:
Confidential support for mental health and wellbeing.Chaplaincy:
Spiritual and pastoral care for students of all faiths.Student Life Team:
A dedicated team to support students with various needs.Sports Facilities:
Access to modern sports facilities for recreational and competitive activities.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Career Prospects:
Ranked 2nd in the UK for career prospects by WUSCA 2024.Investment in Academic Services:
Ranked 3rd in the UK for spending on academic services by the Complete University Guide 2025.High Teaching Satisfaction:
Ranked 4th in the UK for teaching satisfaction by the Guardian University Guide 2024.Vibrant Community:
A strong sense of community with opportunities for engagement and collaboration.Destination Suffolk:
Access to a beautiful and diverse county with plenty to explore.Academic Programs:
The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Biomedical Science:
Focus on the study of human biology and disease.Computing:
Programs in computer science, software engineering, and cybersecurity.Law:
LLB Law program with a focus on legal theory and practice.Psychology:
BSc Psychology program exploring human behavior and mental processes.Business Management:
BA Business Management program with a focus on leadership, strategy, and entrepreneurship.Other:
The University of Suffolk is a Civic University, actively engaging with its community and contributing to regional development. It has a strong commitment to equality and diversity, widening participation, and sustainability.
