Sensory Tool Lending Library: A Quick Guide for Busy Classrooms

lauriesmcintosh
6 days ago
3 min read

Every classroom is full of little bodies and big feelings. A well-stocked sensory tools lending library helps students meet those physical and emotional needs so they can stay calm, focused, and ready to learn. Below is a teacher-friendly guide to what each kind of sensory input does, when to try it, and why these tools matter for all learners.

Before You Introduce a Tool

Observe and ask questions — a child’s behaviour isn’t always what it seems. Use the posters to match a need to a tool, and remember: these are tools, not toys. Try to keep tools in the classroom whenever possible.

How Our Lending Library Works

Our sensory tools are collected and organized in a central resource room so staff can quickly find what they’re looking for. Everything is labelled, grouped by sensory system, and easy to spot so teachers don’t waste time hunting through shelves.

On some days, I travel around with a fully stocked cart, bringing sensory tools directly to classrooms. This “sensory cart on wheels” lets us respond in real time, offer choices, and coach teachers on how to use each tool effectively.

Keeping everything centralized, organized, and mobile means students get what they need quickly, and teachers feel supported rather than overwhelmed.

Why Sensory Tools Matter for Inclusive Learning

Sensory tools aren’t reserved for certain students — they’re an inclusive support that helps all children learn. When we recognize that every child has a sensory system, every child has needs that fluctuate throughout the day, and every child benefits from emotional and physical regulation, sensory tools become a universal way to create safe, productive learning spaces.

They:

Support self-regulation so students can stay calm, alert, and ready to learn.
Reduce behaviour challenges by addressing unmet needs before they grow.
Promote independence as students learn what helps their bodies feel comfortable.
Build belonging by normalizing tools and strategies instead of singling anyone out.
Respect neurodiversity by honouring different sensory profiles and ways of engaging.

When classrooms are equipped with the right tools — and when access is easy, stigma-free, and collaborative — students feel more grounded, teachers feel more supported, and learning becomes more accessible for everyone.

A Quick Refresher on Sensory Systems & Tools

Proprioceptive (Body Awareness)

Used when pushing, pulling, lifting, or stretching.

Use when: students are restless, fidgety, or struggling to focus.

Tools: weighted items, resistance bands, chair push-ups, Bosu balls, scooters, body socks.

Remember: use short bursts, offer choice, watch for tiredness.

Vestibular (Balance & Movement)

Helps with balance and body motion.

Use when: students need to “wake up” or re-energize.

Tools: rocking chairs, wobble stools, swings, stepping stones, balance boards.

Remember: start slow; never force spinning.

Tactile (Touch)

Textures, pressure, and temperature tools are helpful.

Use when: students seek touch or need grounding.

Tools: fidgets, putty, kinetic sand, textured fabrics, sensory balls.

Remember: rotate tools, set storage spots, avoid overwhelming textures.

Visual (Sight)

Colours, lights, movement.

Use when: students need focus or calming.

Tools: glitter jars, visual schedules, lava lamps, sand timers

.Remember: reduce glare, ensure visual safety.

Auditory (Hearing)

Sound input.

Use when: noise is overwhelming or rhythm helps focus.

Tools: headphones, white noise, music, quiet tents.

Remember: headphones are a choice, never a consequence.

Olfactory (Smell)

Scents that calm or alert.

Use when: grounding or focus is needed.

Tools: scent jars, scented markers, hand soap.

Remember: check allergies and keep scents subtle.

Oral (Mouth Input)

Chewing or sucking for regulation.

Use when: students chew on clothing or need oral soothing.

Tools: chew tubes, crunchy snacks, silicone straws, gum (if allowed).

Remember: get family permission and keep items clean.

Interoception (Internal Senses)

Awareness of hunger, thirst, bathroom needs, and emotions.

Use when: students struggle to recognize body signals.

Tools: feelings charts, break cards, mindfulness, calm corners.

Remember: teach signals with visuals and build independence gradually.

Sensory tools aren’t extras — they’re essential supports that help all students feel safe, capable, and ready to learn. With a well-run lending library and responsive support system, we can meet students’ needs exactly when they arise and create classrooms where everyone thrives.