Embed Social Stories and Role-Play into Group Time
Use graded scenarios tailored to developmental levels—e.g., simple cause-effect stories for younger children, and more nuanced social dilemmas for older ones. Incorporate sensory supports (e.g., fidget tools, movement breaks) during role-play to help children stay regulated and engaged. Align stories with functional goals—like transitioning calmly, joining group play, or asking for help—so they reinforce real-life skills. Use visual sequencing cards or editable story templates to support comprehension and recall.
Extra OT Tip: Pair stories with movement-based role-play (e.g., acting out “safe hands” or “calm body”) to integrate motor planning and emotional regulation.
Use Visual Emotion Scales to Help Children Identify and Express Feelings
Choose scales that reflect sensory-emotional integration—like Zones of Regulation or colour-coded thermometers that link feelings to body states. Offer multi-modal access: tactile versions (Velcro, sliders), digital formats, or laminated cards for portability across settings. Embed scales into routine check-ins (e.g., before transitions, after recess) to support proactive regulation. Teach co-regulation strategies alongside scales—like breathing visuals, movement prompts, or sensory toolkits.
Extra OT Tip: Use emotion scales as part of a “regulation station” with layered choices—e.g., “I’m in the yellow zone, I can choose a stretch, a sip of water, or a quiet space.”
Celebrate Kindness Moments with a Classroom “Kindness Jar” or Shout-Out Board
Link kindness recognition to executive functioning goals—like impulse control, flexible thinking, and emotional awareness. Use visual prompts (e.g., “I noticed…” sentence starters) to scaffold peer-to-peer recognition. Incorporate fine motor tasks (e.g., writing, drawing, placing tokens) to support handwriting and hand-eye coordination. Celebrate kindness in sensory-friendly ways—e.g., quiet praise, visual certificates, or movement-based rewards for children who find verbal recognition overwhelming.
Extra OT Tip: Create a “kindness choice board” with options for how children want to be celebrated—stickers, quiet high-five, drawing, or movement break.