Category: Visual

Repost: Classroom Timers

5/15/2024

Repost from 2021

Sensory overload is something that many people experience and I would venture to say that everyone experiences at least once. As teachers, however, we need to be aware that some people experience this regularly and some even daily in their lives. For example, I have anxiety and migraines and sensory overload is a symptom of both for me. Textures, light, sound can all become too much for me and I can have a very physical response to it.

What does all this have to do with classroom timers? Let's explore it a bit. Often, classroom timers are big, can be bright, and loud. They include a countdown of numbers that is constantly changing. They end with an alarm signaling time that is, too often, a loud repetitive ringing. All of these things can prompt sensory overload and can trigger major anxiety.

Today... I have a headache. It is not so bad that I cannot function, but sound is a trigger right now for me. I also needed a timer in class today. I went to an old favourite: Online-Stopwatch and was about to browse through to find a quiet timer when I noticed some choice menus at the top of the page. I honestly don't know how new of a feature this is, but I know that I just noticed it and have not heard much or any discussion on this topic.... so here it is.

Online-Stopwatch now includes a variety of sensory and calming timers. I've included links to the menus below. Check them out and let me know which are your favourites in the comments. Today, I am rocking this sensory marble timer.

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Repost: Every Day Accommodations

5/15/2024

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This is a quick list of accommodations that I employ as often as possible. These are easy to implement and often require little to no extra materials. What would you add to the list?

American Sign Language - I use this when teaching new vocabulary and to provide visual input. ASL is its own language and should be treated as such, but it is also a great tool for muscle memory and providing a connection between various languages.
Visual Schedule - Routine and expectations can be made clear using a visual schedule and labels in areas of the classroom.
Pause and Point - This is a commonly used Comprehensible Input tool. Whenever I am introducing new words, emphasising words, or repeating questions, I may pause and point to parts of the story, an image, or key words.
Preferential seating - This means so may things. It isn't always proximity to the teacher or the front of the room. For some students, it can actually be proximity to the door, a friend/helpful student, the teacher's desk, or even to specific supplies.
Large Print - It is very easy to print a story, test, or document in large print.

Added 15 May 2024
Here are some more that I've added in the last school year.

Frequent Check ins - Like preferential seating this can mean a lot of things. Some students prefer to write me notes while others ask to speak with me. However, when I initiate a quick check (for both SEL and academic reasons) I try to keep things simple and as undetectable as possible by other students. Some ideas can include:
1. a hand signal - a 1-2-3 (1 meaning help) can be useful or a simple thumbs up or thumbs down.
2. before class - I often use this check in to set expectations and goals for class. With an ESOL student who is struggling to use English we will go over some key phrases they might use during class.
3. Proximity - with some students, simply proximity to them can be a check in. When I do this, however, I try and check in visually with all students while they are working.

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Repost: Classroom Timers

Repost: Every Day Accommodations

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