Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi,
I have recently been diagnosed with autism. I have always found my job as a teacher extremely hard, but always thought that everyone was finding it as hard as me.
Now, after extensive reading, I know that how much I struggle in a class of children is because of my sensory processing - especially with noise.
I have put together a little bag of calming things to try and help - fidget spinner, stress ball, ear plugs, etc. But I was wondering what other people use?
I find the noise at times just too much, and I can't leave the classroom, so it has to be things I can sit and do at my desk and will not distract the children.
Any help would be greatly received!
Thanks,
L
Hello! Welcome to your autistic community! I completely understand why you find the classroom too much, I did too. The mainstream school environment is not typically suited to autistic neurology.
Your stim tools sound really cool! I use chewelry, make noises when happy and listen to the same song on repeat.
Also I am not a teacher, but maybe the book below will be helpful for you:
‘Learning from Autistic Teachers’ - it is a collection of accounts from autistic teachers about their careers, strengths and challenges in the classroom environment:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Learning-Autistic-Teachers-Neurodiversity-Inclusive-School/dp/1839971266/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=2FUAC8H5VTMNP&keywords=learning+from+autistic+teachers&qid=1680373016&sprefix=autistic+tea%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-1
I hope this helps!
Thank you!
You are very welcome. What are your dedicated interests?