Today's Sensory Enrichment Training: The Power of Scent for Better Learning and Behavior
[30:47] Claudie, the creator of sensory enrichment therapy, focuses on the pivotal role of the sense of smell in enhancing brain functions crucial for learning and behavior control. Smelling pleasant scents stimulates dopamine production in the brain, vital for memory, motivation, and movement control. Claudie's protocol involves simple, pleasurable scent-based activities combined with tactile stimulation, effectively boosting both dopamine and serotonin levels. These neurotransmitters are key to improving attention and learning capabilities. The training emphasizes short, engaging sessions that can profoundly impact students, especially those with special needs.
Dawn Fleming - Director of Pupil Services, Berkshire Local School District, Ohio
Dawn Fleming brings a rich background in special education, foster care, and nonprofit management to our discussion. She shares her multifaceted experience in supporting diverse student needs, emphasizing the importance of empathy, grace, and self-care among educators and students alike.
[14:55] Empathy and Grace: The Key to Student Success
Dawn discusses the critical need for empathy and grace in education, stressing the importance of understanding students' backgrounds and challenges. Her approach has led to stronger relationships and improved outcomes in her district.
[16:25] Supporting Staff Well-Being in Education
Addressing the needs of her staff, Dawn emphasizes the significance of self-care for educators to provide the best support for students. She shares examples of how her team collaborates and adapts to unexpected challenges while maintaining a focus on student-centered approaches.
[18:36] Successful Integration of Special Needs Students
Dawn recounts the successful integration of low-incidence and social-emotional students previously educated outside the district. This initiative fostered a more inclusive environment and improved student relations.
[20:53] Learning from Challenges: Adapting and Evolving
Reflecting on a less successful program implementation, Dawn highlights the importance of adapting and learning from challenges. This attitude has helped refine processes and better understand student profiles for more effective support.
[22:19] Vital Advice for Special Education Directors
Dawn advises aspiring educators to explore various roles within education and therapy to find where their talents can be best utilized. She emphasizes the diversity of opportunities within the education sector.
[24:18] Innovative Sensory Rooms and Their Impact
Discussing the sensory rooms in her district, Dawn explains their design, implementation, and the positive impact they've had on students with various sensory needs.
[26:57] Vision for Special Education: Breaking Down Barriers
Dawn shares her vision of educating and empowering parents, breaking down barriers to access resources, and enhancing overall quality of life for families and students in special education.