Pre k ESE is seeking funding to purchase sensory processing equipment for our Pre-K classroom. The purpose of this project is to create a supportive, inclusive learning environment where young children can regulate their bodies, manage sensory input, participate in classroom activities, and develop the skills necessary for successful learning.
Pre-K students have a wide range of sensory, developmental, behavioral, and emotional needs. Some children may become overwhelmed by noise, movement, touch, lighting, transitions, or the busy environment of a classroom. Others may seek additional movement or tactile experiences in order to remain focused and engaged.
Sensory processing equipment can provide teachers with developmentally appropriate tools to help students regulate and participate in learning. The equipment will be incorporated into daily classroom routines, learning centers, transition periods, and teacher-directed activities.
Funding will allow us to create a designated sensory area and provide equipment such as sensory seating, weighted or lap supports when appropriate, tactile materials, movement tools, calming resources, visual supports, and other developmentally appropriate equipment.
Pre-K classroom is a busy and stimulating environment. Young children are expected to transition between activities, interact with peers, listen to directions, participate in group instruction, and manage their emotions while developing the foundational academic and social skills needed for kindergarten.
For some students, sensory input can make these expectations particularly challenging. A child who is overwhelmed by classroom noise may have difficulty participating in circle time. A child who needs movement may struggle to remain engaged during seated activities. Another child may benefit from tactile experiences or a quiet space to regroup before returning to instruction.
Without appropriate tools and supports, sensory needs can interfere with a child's ability to access the curriculum and fully participate in the classroom.
Our goal is to provide proactive, supportive strategies that help children regulate and remain engaged in learning rather than waiting until a child becomes overwhelmed
Goal 1: Improve student self-regulation.
Students will have access to developmentally appropriate sensory tools and strategies that support regulation.
Objective: Students will be taught how to identify and appropriately use selected classroom regulation tools with teacher guidance.
Goal 2: Increase classroom participation.
Sensory supports will help students remain engaged during instruction, learning centers, transitions, and other classroom activities.
Objective: Teachers will monitor student participation and document changes in engagement and successful participation.
Goal 3: Support an inclusive learning environment.
The project will provide students with different sensory needs access to tools that can help them participate alongside their peers.
Objective: Sensory supports will be incorporated into classroom routines and individualized learning strategies as appropriate.
Goal 4: Strengthen kindergarten readiness.
Students will develop age-appropriate strategies for managing emotions, transitions, attention, and sensory experiences.
Objective: Students will demonstrate increased independence in using classroom strategies for regulation and returning to learning activities.
Implementation
The sensory equipment will be integrated into the classroom throughout the school year.
Teachers will introduce students to the equipment and teach appropriate ways to use each item. Students will learn that sensory tools are classroom learning supports rather than toys or rewards.
Benefits to Students
The project is expected to support:
Improved attention and engagement
More successful transitions
Increased participation in classroom activities
Development of self-regulation skills
Improved ability to manage classroom stimulation
Increased independence
Greater access to instruction
Reduced disruption caused by unmet sensory needs
Improved confidence and classroom participation
Stronger social-emotional development
The ultimate goal is not simply to reduce challenging behaviors. It is to help children understand their needs, develop appropriate regulation strategies, and remain connected to the learning environment.
Equity and Inclusion
Every child deserves an opportunity to learn in an environment where their developmental needs are recognized and supported.
Providing sensory equipment helps create a more inclusive classroom by giving students multiple ways to access learning. These supports can benefit children with identified developmental needs as well as children who may simply need additional movement, quiet, tactile input, or support during transitions.
The equipment will be available as part of the classroom environment so that students can learn appropriate self-regulation strategies without being unnecessarily separated from their peers.
Proposed Budget
Equipment Estimated Cost
Sensory seating and cushions(boule rocking chair) 2 $160
Tactile/sensory materials()space kids sensory bin) $24.99
Learning room Rainbow sort class room set $59.99
Fidget and fine-motor tools( sorting squeeze 8 pack). $18.99
Buffalo Games shape maker 2 pack. $31.05
Movement/balance equipment (Mersco mini trampoline). $109.00
Sensory bins and supplies (Agentlan Dino and ocean sensory bin $22.9
Coogam ABC box matching game $27.99
52 piece magnetic blocks $21.98
Calming/alternative lighting (Globe string lights LORRYTE Warm ). $34.99
By funding sensory processing equipment for our Pre-K classroom, it will help us create an environment where children can develop self-regulation skills, participate more successfully need for kindergarten and beyond.
This project represents an investment not only in classroom equipment, but in the whole child.
