Navigating Sensory Processing Support in Westerville City Schools: A Parent’s Guide

Welcome! If you’re a parent or caregiver navigating sensory processing challenges within Westerville City Schools, you’re in the right place. We know this journey can feel overwhelming, full of questions about how to support your child and work with the school system to help them thrive. This guide is here to walk alongside you, offering clear, practical insights and encouragement to help you feel confident and empowered every step of the way. You’re not alone, and together, we’ll make sure your child gets the support they deserve.

In this guide, we’ll explore how sensory processing support fits within Westerville City Schools’ special education services, how you can advocate effectively, and ways to connect with community resources like SEPAC. We’ll also share practical tips for supporting your child both at school and at home, including how programs like "A Peaceable Place" can make a difference.

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Navigating special education can feel like a maze, but understanding where sensory processing fits in can make a big difference.

What is Sensory Processing? Simply put, sensory processing is how your child’s brain takes in and responds to things like sounds, textures, lights, and movement. When this process is tricky, it can affect focus, emotions, and learning.

Westerville City Schools offer a comprehensive Special Education program tailored to meet each child’s unique needs. Sensory processing support is woven into this program, often through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans.

Occupational therapists and educators team up to create strategies that help your child manage sensory input and succeed academically and socially. This approach doesn’t treat sensory needs in isolation but includes support for executive function, positive behavior, and overall well-being.

For many neurodivergent children, sensory challenges can be a big barrier to learning if not addressed. Tailored support helps reduce anxiety and behavioral hurdles, making classroom engagement easier.

Here are some examples of sensory supports your child might benefit from:

• Sensory breaks: Short, scheduled pauses to help your child reset.
• Specialized seating: Like stability balls or cushions to support focus.
• Calming tools: Fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, or weighted blankets.
• Structured routines: Helping your child anticipate what’s coming next.

Parent Story: One mom shared how requesting sensory breaks and a quiet corner for her son during IEP meetings helped him stay calm and focused. It made a world of difference in his school day.

Feeling unsure about IEP meetings? You’re not alone. Here’s a simple checklist to help you prepare:

1. Gather observations: Note when your child struggles with sensory input at home or school.
2. Ask for evaluations: Request an occupational therapy assessment if sensory processing hasn’t been formally evaluated.
3. Discuss specific supports: Suggest sensory breaks, tools, or accommodations that have helped at home.
4. Collaborate: Work with the team to include sensory strategies in the IEP or 504 plan.
5. Follow up: Keep notes from meetings and check in regularly on how supports are working.

Westerville’s Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) is a fantastic resource for parents. It’s a space where you can connect with others, share experiences, and learn practical strategies.

Why join SEPAC?

• Gain insights into sensory strategies and the IEP process.
• Share your voice to help shape school policies.
• Find emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.

Getting involved can be as simple as:

• Attending a meeting or workshop.
• Joining discussion groups.
• Volunteering for events.

Westerville City Schools also offer programs like "A Peaceable Place," designed for elementary classrooms to nurture positive social skills and executive function.

What does it do?

• Teaches emotional regulation and self-control.
• Builds skills for positive social interactions.
• Supports executive function—like planning and focusing.

At home, you can reinforce these skills by:

• Practicing deep breathing or mindful breaks together.
• Role-playing social situations.
• Using visual schedules to help with routines.
• Celebrating small wins to boost confidence.

Sensory processing support is just one piece of your child’s educational puzzle. By combining it with programs like "A Peaceable Place," positive behavior support, and executive function strategies, Westerville City Schools aim to create a nurturing environment where your child can flourish.

Remember, you’re not walking this path alone. Tools like NeuroMule can help you organize your child’s educational information, track strategies, and communicate more effectively with school teams.

Navigating sensory processing support can feel complex and sometimes overwhelming, but with the right resources, community, and tools, you’re more capable than you might think. Take it step by step, lean on your support network, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

When you’re ready, consider exploring NeuroMule—it’s designed to lighten your load by helping you manage information, reduce overwhelm, and gain valuable insights. Because every parent deserves a calm, capable partner on this journey.

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Sources:

• Westerville City Schools Special Education Program: https://www.westerville.k12.oh.us/teaching-learning/specialized-learning-programs/special-education
• Westerville City Schools SEPAC: https://www.westerville.k12.oh.us/teaching-learning/specialized-learning-programs/special-education/special-education-parent-advisory-council
• "A Peaceable Place" Program: https://www.westerville.k12.oh.us/teaching-learning/parent-prep/parent-prep-sessions-2024