Hello!

Welcome to this free introduction to Understanding Sensory Struggles!

This is the first of many courses, aimed towards primary schools in the UK. This course is a basic introduction to understanding & identifying sensory needs in primary aged children.

My name is Sadie, I'm the founder of SensoryPie & current working Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist based in the South Yorkshire Region (though will just say, so it's not a distraction for the rest of the course.. I am originally from Newcastle and yes I understand my accent is a bit warped!)

My professional background has always been working with children & young people. I've worked in a number of organisations - NHS, CAMHS, NSPCC, Local Charities and currently working directly with care-experienced children (Children looked after). I use all of my experiences within the training I deliver - so expect to learn not only about Sensory needs in children but also mental health, attachment and trauma related difficulties.

As a neuro-divergent OT, I feel that I bring my own lived experience within the training which helps to explain concepts in a relatable and engaging way.

From my years working within hundreds of primary schools, I recognise that schools are facing more pressures than ever to meet the needs of children with complex needs that impact on learning and engagement. Schools are working so hard to evidence they can meet the needs of children, often without the support of specialist services. I also understand that Teaching Assistants play the most crucial role within our schools, supporting our most vulnerable children. However, there often isnt the time or finances available to offer training directly to those who would benefit. Leaving staff feeling overwhelmed and more likely to experience burn-out over time. I know it's nearly impossible to release staff for full days training or to attend expensive face to face training sessions.

Thats why SensoryPie exists, I wanted to create accessible, jargon-free, grab and go type resources which are easy to use and implement. I know that staff don't have time to be planning extensive interventions or researching programmes to use. SensoryPie aims to meet the need of ALL children with sensory needs whether these are needs related to neurodivergance or trauma/attachment related needs. I have delivered 100's of training sessions over the years and I know that staff really value PRACTICAL strategies that they can implement immediately, rather than hours of dry theory that feels difficult to put into practice. (Because lets be fair, who has a spare 7+ hours to work through an online course?!)

I hope that this introductory course gives you a flavour for SensoryPie and the style of our delivery, and that you find this a useful starter. We're so excited to share with you future bite-sized training courses on a number of topics you will find engaging, inspiring and effective!

Thanks so much,

Sadie :)