141 | building inclusive and sensory-friendly classrooms to promote regulation and learning

In this episode, Dr. Tay invites Alyssa Campbell of Seed & Sew to discuss the importance of supporting autistic students at a classroom-wide level, particularly focusing on their nervous system and sensory regulation. Alyssa, with her extensive background in early childhood education and emotional development, shares insights and practical strategies for creating sensory-friendly environments and understanding individual sensory profiles. They explore the benefits of proactive versus reactive strategies in educational settings, the vital role of teachers and parents in advocating for proper supports, and the importance of normalizing neurodiverse needs to foster inclusive learning spaces for all students. The episode is filled with actionable insights that are beneficial for educators, parents, and anyone involved in the care and development of autistic children.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:48 Meet Alyssa Campbell: Expert in Emotional Development

01:58 Dr. Tay's Background and Mission

03:33 Alyssa's Journey and Collaborative Emotion Processing Method

04:12 Understanding Sensory Regulation and Nervous System

18:00 Practical Applications in the Classroom

20:34 Supporting Sensory Needs in Education

25:19 Parental and Teacher Collaboration

25:58 Understanding Early Childhood Sensory Responses

27:17 Proactive Strategies in Schools

35:13 Supporting Teachers and Parents

38:32 Managing Diverse Needs in the Classroom

45:55 The Role of Occupational Therapy

49:26 Resources and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

⚡️check out Alyssa and her parent-friendly resources, including the sensory quiz here: https://www.seedandsew.org/parents

⚡️check out her resources for teachers and schools, including her certification here: https://www.seedandsew.org/seedcertificationteachers

⚡️follow her on Instagram @seed.and.sew and listen to her podcast Voices of Your Village

⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com

⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism

⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>

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LinkedIn @the-dr-tay

*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110