Sensory Processing Needs Toolkit

The toolkit has been developed for use with children and young people of school age, that is from reception age, through to Key Stage 4. 

While the toolkit is a school-based resource, with many of the activities, strategies and tasks designed to be used in a school setting, some of the background information and principles can be adapted and used within the home. 

The partnership is exploring the possibility of developing a Sensory Processing Needs Toolkit that is parent facing and will support the child/young person in a home environment.

There are also a number of resources that may be of help for you to access which can be found in the table on this page. 

While the toolkit is a school-based resource, with many of the activities, strategies and tasks designed to be used in a school setting, some of the background information and principles can be adapted and used within other environments.

Small Changes Campaign - Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, ICS is another source of information that explains what small changes can be made that will make a difference to people who may have Sensory processing needs. 

While the toolkit is a school-based resource, with many of the activities, strategies and task designed to be used in a school setting, some of the background information and principles can be adapted used within other environments.

Small Changes Campaign - Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, ICS is another source of information that explains what small changes can be made that will make a difference to people who may have Sensory processing needs. 

The graduated approach is about giving children and young people the support they need when they need it.  There should be a clear cycle of assessment of progress, planning, putting in place the appropriate support, and reviewing a child or young person’s progress. This is known as 'Assess, Plan, Do, Review'.

Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) Therapy® is an intervention approach based on Ayres Sensory Integration theory.  It is delivered directly by a qualified sensory integration practitioner and is intended to be carried out in a clinic setting using specific equipment.  It aims to change a person’s sensory processing through direct, intensive input. 

We need to take an evidence-based approach in what services and interventions are commissioned and delivered locally.  Therefore, in following an evidence-based approach and guidance from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, as a local area Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent shall not commission specific ASI® Therapy.  You can read the position statement here. 

The position Statement will be reviewed annually. 

The collection of qualitative and quantitative data to understand the impact of the toolkit is being explored across the partnership. 

If you have any experience of using the toolkit and would be willing to share this, please contact ssotics.comms@staffsstoke.icb.nhs.uk.