Navigating Sensory-Friendly Classroom Supports in Laredo ISD: A Parent's Guide

If you're a parent in Laredo ISD with a neurodivergent child, you probably already know how important sensory-friendly classroom supports can be. These accommodations aren’t just nice extras—they’re essential tools that help your child feel comfortable, focused, and ready to learn. Laredo ISD is making real progress in embracing these supports, recognizing the unique sensory needs of children with differences in how they process the world. Think of this guide as your calm, knowledgeable buddy—here to help you understand the system, ask the right questions, and make sure your child gets the accommodations they deserve.

You might have heard terms like "sensory processing" or "sensory overload" thrown around. Simply put, sensory processing is how our brains take in and make sense of information from our senses—like touch, sound, sight, and movement. For many neurodivergent kids, this process works differently, which can make everyday classroom environments overwhelming or distracting.

Sensory-friendly supports are designed to help with this by creating spaces and strategies that reduce stress and help kids stay regulated. This can mean anything from a quiet corner with soft lighting to special tools like fidget toys or noise-canceling headphones.

Laredo Independent School District (LISD) has taken some fantastic steps to support these needs. One of the standout efforts is the creation of sensory rooms across several campuses, with plans to add nine more. These rooms are safe, calming spaces where students can go to manage sensory overload or under-stimulation.

Imagine your child feeling anxious or overwhelmed in class—having a sensory room means they can take a break, use calming tools, and return to learning feeling more focused and ready. These rooms aren’t just about immediate relief; they help improve attention, organization, and overall readiness to learn.

Occupational therapists (OTs) in LISD play a key role here. They develop personalized sensory plans that work hand-in-hand with these rooms to meet your child’s unique needs. For example, an OT might recommend specific activities or tools your child can use during sensory breaks to stay regulated.

Navigating the school system can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Reach Out Early: Contact your child’s special education case manager or the Special Education Family Center at LISD. They’re great starting points to learn about available supports.
2. Learn About Sensory Needs: Ask for an occupational therapy evaluation if you haven’t already. This assessment helps identify your child’s sensory profile and what supports might be helpful.
3. Prepare for Meetings: Whether it’s an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or an ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meeting, come with notes about your child’s sensory challenges and what you’ve noticed at home or school.
4. Ask the Right Questions: For example, "Can my child access the sensory room when needed?" or "What sensory tools can be incorporated into their daily routine?"
5. Collaborate Regularly: Keep in touch with your child’s OT and teachers. Share what works at home and ask how you can support sensory strategies at school.

One mom shared, "Before we knew about the sensory room, my son would have meltdowns almost daily. Now, he knows he can take a break when things get too loud or busy. It’s made such a difference in his confidence and happiness at school."

LISD’s Special Education Family Center is a fantastic resource that offers family counseling and parenting groups. These programs help parents understand sensory processing and build confidence in advocating for their kids. They also provide a supportive community where you can share experiences and learn from others.

OTs in LISD start with thorough assessments to understand your child’s sensory needs. They might identify sensitivities to sounds, touch, or movement that affect focus and learning. Based on this, they create tailored plans that could include:

• Scheduled sensory breaks
• Use of fidget tools
• Calming strategies integrated into daily routines

These plans work alongside the sensory rooms to help your child stay alert and organized throughout the school day.

• Share observations from home about what helps or triggers your child.
• Ask for recommendations on sensory tools or activities you can use at home.
• Keep communication open to adjust strategies as your child grows and changes.

Keeping track of meetings, evaluations, sensory plans, and progress can feel like a full-time job. That’s where NeuroMule comes in. It’s a tool designed to help you organize all this information, track your child’s progress, and gain insights that make advocacy easier and less stressful.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember: you’re doing great. Start by reaching out to the Special Education Family Center or your child’s case manager. Ask about sensory supports and evaluations. Join parenting groups to connect with others. And consider using NeuroMule to keep everything organized.

You’re not alone on this journey. With the right supports and a little help, your child can thrive in a sensory-friendly classroom environment. Keep advocating, keep asking questions, and remember—we’re here to help every step of the way.

---

References:

• Laredo ISD. (2023). Sensory Rooms Initiative. Retrieved from https://www.laredoisd.org/article/1338095
• Laredo ISD Special Education. (2023). Family Resources and Support Programs. Retrieved from https://www.laredoisd.org/page/special-education
• Laredo ISD Occupational Therapy Department. (2023). Services Overview. Retrieved from https://www.lisd.net/Page/474

---

Navigating sensory-friendly classroom supports in Laredo ISD doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With clear steps, supportive resources, and tools like NeuroMule, you can confidently advocate for your child’s needs and help them succeed. You’ve got this—and we’re here to help.