SOS your OT

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SOS your OT
By kristy

I agree with Michelle, an occupational therapist will be able to give you some suggestions for meeting the child's sensory needs. There are many "tools" that are not too obtrusive in your classroom -- things like a weighted
lap blanket or vest, sitting on a cushy disc thing(sorry I can't remember the name), providing 'fidgets' might help.
As you have found out, trying to reward a child for controlling behavior may not work if they are physically unable and have not been taught how to control themselves. She can't do what she can't do. In other words, if she could earn the stickers for self-control,

she probably wouldn't need the stickers. Now, that's not to say that we don't help kids monitor their behavior, but we have to teach them some strategies first.

Have you and the child talked about her hyperactivity -- I bet it makes her feel pretty yukky to be so out of control and to be in trouble so much of the time. I bet it interferes with things she wants to do also. Recognize that problem and let her know you want to help her.

You have tried great things already, I know how wearing this sort of situation is -- it just tires you out. Let us know what happens from here.