Developing Sensory Integration and Movement Learning Initiatives for Better Learning Outcomes
Creating inclusive schools isn’t just about the classroom it’s about how children experience learning through their senses and movement. Sensory integration and movement learning play a critical role in helping pupils regulate emotions, focus attention, and build confidence. For learners with special educational needs (SEN), including those with visual impairments or neurodivergent profiles, these strategies can make the difference between thriving and struggling.
What is Sensory Integration and Movement Learning?
Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to organise and interpret information from the senses sight, sound, touch, balance, and movement. When this system works well, pupils can focus, learn, and respond calmly. But for many neurodivergent pupils or those with sensory processing differences, everyday environments can lead to either overload or under-stimulation.
Movement learning supports physical confidence and coordination. Skills such as balance, spatial awareness, and motor planning underpin not only handwriting or PE, but also social interaction and independence.
Research shows that well-designed sensory and movement activities can significantly improve focus, emotional regulation, and classroom participation. (DfE Guidance on Behaviour and Mental Health in Schools, 2023).
Why It Matters in Schools
Students with visual impairments often rely on tactile and proprioceptive (body position) cues to navigate their surroundings. Without structured sensory opportunities, they may become disoriented or anxious.
Neurodivergent learners including those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences can struggle with noisy, cluttered, or unpredictable classrooms. For them, well-planned sensory and movement breaks reduce stress and improve concentration.
And importantly: when schools embed sensory strategies, the benefits extend to all pupils. Movement breaks improve attention spans, calming activities lower collective stress, and multisensory teaching supports diverse learning styles.
Practical Strategies for Schools
Schools don’t need to start big. Many initiatives can be introduced simply and scaled gradually.
Create sensory-friendly spaces: Quiet zones with textured mats, calming lights, or soft furnishings where pupils can reset before rejoining class.
Integrate movement breaks: Short stretches, yoga, or active transitions between lessons to improve focus and reduce restlessness.
Use personalised sensory tools: Fidget aids, noise-cancelling headphones, or tactile markers to support individual sensory profiles.
Incorporate multi-sensory teaching: Blend visual, tactile, and auditory cues into lessons — from textured resources to movement-based learning.
Train and collaborate: Equip staff with an understanding of sensory needs, and involve occupational therapists or SEN specialists in planning support.
Challenges Schools Often Face
It’s not always straightforward. Budgets are tight, staff are stretched, and some schools worry that sensory initiatives may disrupt routines. But the evidence shows the opposite: small, consistent strategies reduce behavioural incidents and make classrooms calmer for everyone.
A phased approach works well: start with one sensory-friendly space or pilot daily movement breaks, and build confidence from there.
Building Inclusive Learning Environments
Ultimately, sensory integration and movement learning aren’t “extras” they are part of good, inclusive teaching practice. When pupils are supported to regulate their emotions and access learning in ways that suit their sensory profile, the whole school benefits: calmer classrooms, more confident learners, and stronger engagement.
By making space for sensory and movement initiatives, schools can nurture not only academic success but also wellbeing, independence, and life skills helping every pupil thrive.
